Due to intense snowfall and rain over the past two days in Himachal Pradesh, Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) faces disruptions on approximately 800 routes, affecting public transportation across the state.
Impact on Services
- HRTC and private buses are unable to operate on their respective routes.
- More than 200 routes in the Shimla division alone have been severely impacted.
- Upper Shimla experiences the most significant disruption due to heavy snowfall.
Affected Regions
- Chamba, Pangi, Bharmour, Keylong, Rohtang, Atal Tunnel surroundings, Manali, Dalhousie, Shimla, and Kinnaur are among the severely affected areas.
- 59 routes in the Shimla division are suspended, and 52 routes are closed.
- Other divisions, including Rohru, Rampur, Karsog, and rural areas of Shimla, witness route suspensions and closures.
Challenges Faced
- Traffic disruptions in Manali Keylong, Dalhousie, Pangi, Bharmour, Kinnaur, Rohtang, and upper areas of Manali and Shimla.
- Stranded buses, especially in Upper Shimla, contribute to travel challenges.
Impact on Citizens
- The suspension of services on essential routes creates hardships for commuters.
- High-altitude areas face a standstill in daily life, with slippery roads hindering bus operations.
The heavy snowfall poses significant challenges to HRTC and private bus services, affecting the daily lives of residents and travelers. Authorities are working to address the issues and resume services as weather conditions permit.
Source : himtimes