1. Himachal Pradesh, having recently experienced a surge in Christmas tourism, is now ready for New Year celebrations.
2. CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu emphasizes the importance of safety for tourists engaging in festive activities.
3. The hill state, renowned for its scenic beauty, attracts visitors with snowy landscapes and various events in popular destinations like Manali and Shimla.
Dharamshala, Dec 31: Himachal Pradesh, a picturesque hill state that recently witnessed a surge in tourist arrivals during Christmas, is once again adorned for New Year celebrations.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu urges tourists to prioritize safety while revelling in the festivities.
Safety Measures Emphasized
With a focus on safety, authorities issued a warning against revelers found in an inebriated condition. Kullu Deputy Commissioner Ashutosh Garg emphasizes the importance of maintaining law and order, assuring a welcoming environment for visitors. Efforts are underway to create a memorable holiday experience, with an appeal to tourists to prioritize safety in their travels.
Traffic Management in Manali
Manali, a favored destination, witnessed nearly 10,000 tourist vehicles entering the valley. To manage the influx, Manali has been divided into eight sectors, and strict traffic regulations are in place. Prohibitions on idle parking and overtaking aim to maintain order. A robust force of 70 police officers and over 100 home guard jawans is deployed to manage traffic movement in Manali town.
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Tourists Brave Cold for Snow Adventures
Despite plummeting temperatures, tourists are undeterred, drawn by the allure of snow. In places like Lahaul and Spiti valleys, where temperatures drop to minus 10°C, visitors embrace the cold to experience snowfall. Popular destinations like Koksar register a minimum temperature of minus 6°C, attracting hundreds of tourists daily.
State’s Preparations to Attract Tourists
The state government has undertaken extensive preparations to attract tourists during the New Year celebrations. Manali and Shimla offer a diverse range of events, including beauty pageants, gala dinners, and musical nights. The state-owned hotels are witnessing high occupancy, nearing full capacity, after experiencing a boost in tourist arrivals since November 2023.
Festive Events in Manali
Manali’s Himachal Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) General Manager, BS Aukta, highlights the planned events, including live music shows, snacks, drinks, and a special night for couples on December 31. The festivities will feature lemon and balloon dances, culminating in the Manali Queen competition, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
Traffic Challenges and Expectations
Despite ongoing repairs on roads affected by floods and landslides, traffic congestion is expected, especially on the Mandi-Manali highway, which is still under repair. The stretch near Pondoh Dam, where a 4.5 km road was washed away, diverts traffic to a narrow road, potentially causing delays. Authorities anticipate increased traffic during New Year celebrations, raising concerns about potential congestion.
Tourism Industry Recovery Hopes
Following floods and landslides in July 2023, some roads in the state are still undergoing repair. Despite challenges, the tourism industry in Himachal Pradesh hopes to recover losses during the winter season, with an influx of visitors seeking snowy landscapes and festive celebrations. The state remains a sought-after destination, and efforts are ongoing to ensure a balance between welcoming tourists and maintaining safety measures.
