Roads blocked, power & water supply disrupted in Chamba

Heavy snowfall and incessant rain on Thursday disrupted normal life in Chamba district, leading to roadblocks and disruption in electricity and water supply in remote areas

The Pangi valley and higher reaches of Dalhousie, Bharmour, Salooni and Churah subdivisions experienced a fresh spell of snow. Dainkund, located in the upper region of Dalhousie, received around 7 to 8 inches of snow, while Kalatop and Lakkarmandi recorded 5 to 6 inches. Ahla saw about 3 inches of snow.

Dalhousie town also experienced light snowfall, turning the upper areas into a picturesque a white landscape. Low-lying areas witnessed heavy rainfall throughout the day, resulting in a cold wave sweeping across the district.

The freezing weather brought life to a standstill in Dalhousie town and the surrounding areas. Markets in Dalhousie wore a deserted look as locals preferred to stay indoors due to biting cold and tourist activity was absent. Tourism stakeholders are hopeful that the fresh snowfall will attract visitors, especially over the upcoming weekend, boosting tourism-related activities. This winter, the tourist season had been lean in Dalhousie due to a prolonged dry spell.

Meanwhile, several roads in the remote regions of Pangi, Salooni and Tissa areas were blocked due to snowfall. Traffic also came to a standstill on the Dalhousie-Khajjiar road. The Jot Pass on the Chamba-Chowari highway was also closed for traffic due to snow accumulation.

The Public Works Department (PWD) has pressed its men and machinery into service to clear snow and restore roads. Power and water supply has also been disrupted in far-flung villages.