A sudden and unexpected snowfall at Jalori Jot, a high-altitude pass in Himachal Pradesh’s Kullu district, disrupted traffic on Monday night, leaving numerous tourists and vehicles stranded. The extreme weather conditions necessitated immediate rescue operations by local authorities.
Snowfall Disrupts Traffic, Strands Travellers
The pass, situated at an elevation of approximately 10,280 feet on the Aut-Luhri National Highway NH-305, experienced fresh snowfall. Accompanying the snow were freezing temperatures and icy road surfaces, rendering vehicle movement perilous. Near the Bada Nala stretch, about an inch of snow accumulated on the roadway, compelling officials to halt all vehicular traffic, including both small and large vehicles.
Information was available with The Chenab Times indicating that the Kullu Superintendent of Police, Abishek Sekar, confirmed the disruption and the subsequent rescue efforts. Responding promptly to distress calls, the district police initiated a rescue operation to assist those stranded.
Rescue Operation Underway
A dedicated police rescue team was dispatched to the affected area. The team successfully evacuated approximately eight two-wheelers and 12 pedestrians and trekkers who found themselves stranded near Jalori Jot due to the sudden inclement weather. The rescued individuals were safely transported to Sojha in a government vehicle. Additionally, two small cars were towed across Jalori Top. Some drivers chose to return via the Gadagushaini route, opting for a safer journey back.
In light of the escalating severity of the situation, local residents and taxi operators in the nearby tourist hubs of Sojha, Ghiyagi, and Jibhi were instructed by the SP to prevent tourists from proceeding towards Jalori Jot. They were also tasked with informing travellers about the current adverse road conditions and the risks associated with the journey.
Advisory Issued to Tourists
The Superintendent of Police issued a strong appeal to all tourists, local residents, and vehicle drivers, urging them to refrain from travelling towards Jalori Jot, particularly during nighttime. He advised them to postpone their journeys until the weather conditions improve and the roads become safe for travel. The appeal also cautioned against the risks of driving on snow-covered and slippery roads, emphasizing the importance of adhering to directives from the police and administration.
Further advice was given to travellers to meticulously plan their trips only after obtaining accurate information regarding weather forecasts and road conditions. The SP stressed the need to avoid unnecessary risks, particularly in treacherous mountain terrain during periods of snowfall and extreme cold.
Intensified Cold in Rohtang Pass Area
Meanwhile, the cold wave has intensified significantly in the Rohtang Pass region. The area has witnessed fresh snowfall, accompanied by a sharp decline in temperatures. The drastic drop in temperature has led to the freezing of water in natural springs and small streams, creating a starkly cold landscape.
Despite the harsh conditions, the natural ice formations at Rahni Nala have become a point of attraction for tourists. Visitors were observed capturing the scenic beauty of these natural ice formations through photographs, appreciating the unique spectacle presented by the frozen environment. The continued cold spell underscores the challenging winter conditions prevalent in the higher altitudes of Himachal Pradesh.
The Chenab Times News Desk
