Kufri Snowfall Triggers Tourist Surge in Shimla Region
Following a significant snowfall event in Himachal Pradesh, tourist destinations like Shimla and Kufri have experienced an unexpected influx of visitors. Authorities are now urging travelers to adopt alternative routes to avoid congestion, while local hoteliers express mixed feelings about the seasonal boom.
Snowfall Measurements and Tourist Attraction
Kufri received over 2 feet of snow, approximately 66 cm, making it a prime attraction for winter enthusiasts. Shimla recorded 27 cm of snowfall, while Manali saw 45.8 cm. The highest accumulation was reported at Kothi in Kinnaur district, with 105 cm. This fresh blanket of snow has drawn crowds primarily from Chandigarh, Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi, turning the weekend into a bustling period for the tourism sector.
Traffic Advisory and Road Conditions
To manage the increased traffic, officials have advised motorists approaching from the Chandigarh side to bypass Shimla city. They recommend using the Shimla bypass route via New-ISBT Tutikandi for direct access to Kufri. This measure aims to alleviate congestion on narrow internal roads. Anand Dhaiya, Project Director of the NHAI Kalka–Shimla section, confirmed that National Highway-5 remains operational despite the snowfall, though the Dhalli–Bhattakuffar old Shimla road was temporarily blocked.
Hotel Occupancy and Civic Preparedness Issues
Hoteliers in Shimla and surrounding areas report occupancy levels expected to reach 70 to 80 percent due to the weekend rush. Mohinder Seth, president of the Shimla Hotels and Tourism Stakeholders’ Association, noted that footfall has surged significantly. However, he highlighted serious concerns regarding civic preparedness, particularly unreliable power supply and inadequate internal road connectivity. Seth mentioned spending nearly Rs 10,000 on diesel for generators to ensure uninterrupted electricity for guests, emphasizing the need for better administrative planning during peak tourism seasons.
Broader Implications for Winter Tourism
The situation underscores the challenges faced by popular winter destinations like Shimla. While snowfall boosts tourist numbers, it also tests infrastructure resilience. Stakeholders stress that uninterrupted electricity, timely snow clearance, and efficient road networks are crucial for maintaining Shimla's reputation as a premier winter getaway. This event highlights the ongoing balance between attracting visitors and ensuring sustainable tourism practices in Himachal Pradesh.
