Heavy snowfall in Manali has caused major trouble for tourists traveling from Delhi and Gurugram. Since Friday, January 24, the popular hill station has seen massive traffic jams. Vehicles are moving very slowly, and a distance of just 16 kilometers is taking more than four hours to cover.
Why are tourists stuck in Manali?
Continuous snowfall has made roads slippery and dangerous. Authorities have stopped buses at Patlikuhal, about 16 km before Manali. Only light vehicles are allowed to move forward, but the heavy rush has created a gridlock. Many tourists had to spend the night in their cars because hotels were full or unreachable.
What are the current taxi rates?
Due to the shortage of public transport and risky road conditions, taxi fares have skyrocketed. Local operators are demanding high prices for short distances.
| Route | Distance | Current Fare |
|---|---|---|
| Manali to Patlikuhal | 20 km | ₹10,000 – ₹15,000 |
What restrictions are in place?
The Kullu administration has issued an orange alert. All schools and colleges in the district remained closed on January 27. The road to the Atal Tunnel is completely closed. Police have deployed 200 personnel to manage traffic, and only 4×4 vehicles are being used to rescue stranded travelers.
