Himachal: Heavy Snowfall, Rain Continue, 246 Power Transformers Down, 218 Roads Blocked
Pictures of landslides due to heavy rain and snowfall in Himachal
Shimla, February 28: Continuous snowfall in high-altitude areas and heavy rainfall in the lower regions of the state have disrupted the infrastructure of Himachal Pradesh for the past three days. With no let-up in the inclement weather, 218 roads, including three national highways, have been closed in the state and 246 power transformers have tripped. The conditions have also led to a school holiday in some districts.
Roads and Connectivity Weakened
Heavy snowfall is also being witnessed in the high-altitude parts of Lahaul-Spiti, Pangi (Chamba) and Kinnaur where road connectivity to district headquarters has been completely cut off. The snow has been accumulating so quickly that it has been hard to keep these roads clear, prompting authorities to discourage unnecessary travel. Rain and snow-induced landslides have also made matters worse in lower regions. Disruption in travel across state due to 218 road closure, including closure of three major national highways.
Impact on Power Supply
The current weather disturbance has also caused devastation to the state’s power supply system. There have also been reported power outages as a result of 246 power transformers going down. It particularly affects rural areas and those located in remote areas of the state. The power department is making efforts to restore services, but the efforts were hampered due to extreme weather conditions.
Schools Shut, Local Authorities Give Warning
The state government has announced holidays for educational institutions in several districts, including Chamba and Lahaul-Spiti as well as Kullu and Kinnaur, in response to the heavy rain and snowfall. These regions have also kept schools closed until weather permits. The state’s education department has given the authority of opening or closing schools to the local administration, on a case-by-case basis based on the prevailing climate situation.
The general public has also been urged to remain vigilant and to avoid traveling unless necessary. “Under these circumstances, everyone is requested to remain in safe regions until weather conditions are improved,” the statement said.
Weather Outlook and Alerts
Meteorological Center Shimla has also warned of severe rain and snowfall in many other places of the state and issued orange alert for the state. The weather is set to clear up on March 1 and 2, but another Western Disturbance activating on March 3 and 4 would bring rain and fresh snowfall, in the higher reaches. The situation is being closely monitored by the authorities, who have warned that the weather conditions may change abruptly, creating additional disturbances.
Relief for Farmers and Gardeners
The new wet weather has helped alleviate challenges for farmers and gardeners across the state, who were grappling with the consequences of lengthening dry periods. The ongoing weather, challenging as it may be, is favourable for agriculture, Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi said. But he said we should not let our guard down and we need to be alert and careful during this period of bad weather.
Measures at the Public Safety and Local Administration
Deputy Commissioners have been given the discretion to close or keep the schools open based on the weather conditions in their respective areas, said the state government. In the face of ongoing heavy weather, the administration has recommended that people limit their outdoor activities and remain safe. While emergency services are on high alert, local authorities remain vigilant and are taking steps to promote public safety.
With the weather conditions changing, people visiting and living in Himachal Pradesh must prepare for the situation.
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