Heavy snowfall in the popular hill town of Manali has triggered severe traffic congestion, leaving thousands of tourists stranded on mountain roads as an unprecedented rush coincided with a long weekend. Authorities said an 8-kilometre-long traffic jam was reported on the stretch between Kothi and Manali in the Kullu district, with vehicles stuck for hours.

The congestion followed the season’s first snowfall after nearly three months of dry weather, drawing a sudden influx of tourists eager to witness fresh snow. Narrow hill roads, combined with snow accumulation and increased vehicular movement, significantly slowed traffic flow, causing long delays for commuters and visitors alike.

Officials said the situation worsened as many tourists arrived without adequate information about road conditions. Snow-clearing operations were underway in affected areas, but progress remained slow due to continuous traffic pressure and difficult terrain. Police personnel were deployed to manage movement and prevent further bottlenecks.

Also Read: PM Modi: Being a Voter is Greatest Privilege and Sacred Duty

Adding to the strain, hotel occupancy in Manali has reached 100%, leaving many visitors scrambling for accommodation. With limited availability in the town, several tourists have begun shifting to nearby areas, particularly Kullu, in search of lodging and relief from the congestion.

Local authorities have urged travellers to exercise caution, follow advisories, and avoid unnecessary travel until road conditions improve. Tourists have also been advised to use designated parking areas and cooperate with traffic police to ensure smoother movement.

Manali, a major winter tourism hub, frequently experiences traffic disruptions during peak snowfall periods. Officials said contingency measures are being reviewed to better manage tourist inflow during adverse weather conditions, especially during extended weekends when visitor numbers surge sharply.

Also Read: #JustIn: 23-Year-Old Hindu Garage Worker Killed in Brutal Arson Attack in Bangladesh