Road connectivity has been disrupted due to heavy snowfall in Himachal Pradesh, with more than 350 roads blocked. Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Vikramaditya Singh assured that extensive snow removal work is going on, 268 machines have been deployed in the affected areas and 235 roads are expected to reopen by Wednesday evening.
The state government has deployed snow removal machines in snow-covered areas including Dalhousie and Rohru. Giving details of the deployment, Singh said, “We have 70 departmental JCBs, 96 hired machines, 13 advanced snowblowers and 13 bulldozers that are actively working in these areas.”
Singh underlined the importance of ensuring smooth travel for both locals and tourists during the peak festival season, while also highlighting the economic importance of snowfall for the state.
Singh said, “Snowfall in December is especially important for horticulture. It provides essential moisture and natural fertilizers for crops, thereby increasing productivity. Horticulture, which earns Rs 4,500 crore annually, is a vital component of our economy. It is the backbone of Himachal Pradesh, and this snowfall is a boon for it. Moreover, tourism, which is an important contributor of revenue, benefits greatly from the beautiful, snow-laden Himachal Pradesh.”
Singh assured that the administration is fully prepared to welcome tourists to popular destinations like Shimla, Manali and Dalhousie and is looking at it as an opportunity to showcase the winter attractions of the state and boost the economy.
“We are fully prepared to welcome tourists to the tourist destinations of Himachal. The district administration has been directed to give priority to snow removal in important areas to minimize inconvenience to tourists,” Singh said.
He also said that tourism is not only an important economic activity but also an integral part of the identity of the state.
In view of the snowfall and road blockages, Singh told the media that a review meeting was held with the PWD to ensure efficient operations.
Underscoring the department’s commitment to restore normalcy, he said, “I have directed Chief Engineers to cancel all leaves of field staff deployed in snow-affected areas. Alternative arrangements will be considered only in extreme emergencies.” Will go.”
Singh also gave information on the progress of the land holding tunnel. It is a strategic infrastructure project that aims to reduce the travel distance between Manali and China border by 50-60 kilometres.
“This tunnel is vital for the connectivity of the state and holds immense strategic importance for national defence,” Singh said. “Discussions in this regard are going on with Union Ministers Nitin Gadkari and Rajnath Singh.”
Concluding the briefing, Singh reiterated the state government’s preparedness to deal with the challenges posed by snowfall.
He said, “Our focus is on restoring connectivity quickly and efficiently to provide smooth mobility for all. Himachal Pradesh is ready to welcome tourists and provide assistance to the local people in every possible way.”
