Heavy Snowfall Near Atal Tunnel Leaves Tourists Stranded
Chaos unfolded near the Atal Tunnel on Saturday evening after heavy snowfall left hundreds of vehicles stranded between the South Portal and Dhundi. Traffic snarls stretched deep inside the tunnel, creating panic among tourists returning from Lahaul.
The disruption began when fresh snow made the stretch from the South Portal to Solang Nala dangerously slippery. Despite restrictions on regular traffic, tourist vehicles returning from Sissu and Koksar entered the area and began skidding, leading to long queues that extended up to the Hockey Bridge.
Manali Police quickly launched a rescue operation. DSP KD Sharma reached the spot and supervised teams working tirelessly in harsh weather to evacuate stranded tourists and restore traffic flow. Vehicles stuck in the snow were gradually cleared and directed safely towards Manali.
DSP Sharma explained that the congestion was triggered when vehicles returning from Dhundi started skidding on the fresh snow. He assured that evacuation efforts are ongoing and tourists are being moved to safety.
Authorities have urged visitors to follow advisories and avoid unnecessary travel in snow-affected areas, warning that weather conditions remain unpredictable in the region.
