Doda (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], March 1: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Friday urged residents to stay away from rivers and streams due to heavy rains and snowfall affecting parts of the state, including Kullu district. The continuous snowfall and rainfall over the past three days have brought an end to the dry spell in the region, covering the mountains with a thick layer of snow.
In his statement, Sukhu emphasized the importance of caution as the weather has led to significant disruptions, including the blocking of roads and power outages. “I have been taking stock of the situation since morning. All people are requested to be cautious and follow the guidelines issued by the administration. Stay away from rivers and streams,” he said.
The snowfall has brought joy to the locals, transforming the landscape into a winter wonderland. A local from Doda shared, “There is a wave of happiness not only in Doda but the whole state. This snow has come after a long dry spell, and the surroundings have changed very quickly. All the green gold in the mountains has transformed due to the white blanket of snow.”
The once green fields and trees have been blanketed in snow, creating a stunning visual contrast. Despite the disruptions, locals are embracing the beauty of nature, bundling up in warm clothing to enjoy the winter charm.
However, the snowfall and rain have caused significant disruptions in infrastructure, with the State Disaster Management Authority reporting that 583 roads, including five National Highways, have been blocked. Additionally, 2263 distribution transformers (DTRs) are down, affecting power supply to many areas. Moreover, 279 water supply schemes have been impacted, leaving several regions without access to essential services.
Despite these challenges, the community remains positive, with residents appreciating the scenic transformation brought by the heavy snowfall. Chief Minister Sukhu urged everyone to remain vigilant and follow safety instructions issued by the administration during these challenging weather conditions.