Farmers elated

Tribune News Service

Mandi, January 13

Snow has brought cheer to farmers in Kullu and Mandi districts. On Saturday night, the higher reaches of the districts received a heavy snowfall, while the lower region saw incessant rain, which ended the dry spell.

However, farmers are expecting more snow and rain, which will provide adequate moisture to the agriculture land.

Ramesh Thakur, an apple orchardist in Kharahal valley in Kullu district, said, “A fresh spell of snow has given a sigh of relief to farmers. However, it is inadequate for apple orchards and we are expecting more snow in the coming days.”

Manali and its nearby places received snow, which elated hoteliers as well as tourists. Manali received over 10 cm snow, while Solang and Gulaba experienced over 30 cm snow. The traffic to the Solang valley had been affected because of heavy snow. 

The Jalori Pass, the gateway to Anni and Nirmand from Kullu, got heavy snow, blocking the traffic.

In Mandi district, the higher reaches like Shikari Devi and Kamrunag witnessed heavy snow. All major roads leading to the Seraj valley and to Janjehli and Gada Gushaini were blocked. The administration has deployed its machinery to restore the roads to traffic.