Schools to remain shut in Himachal

Tribune News Service

Shimla, September 23

Normal life has been thrown out of gear in most parts of the state due to incessant rain, while snowfall in Kinnuar, Lahaul-Spiti, Rohtang and higher reaches of Chamba has resulted in a drop in temperatures. The government has announced closure of all educational institutions in the districts of Chamba, Kullu, Sirmaur, Kangra, Kullu, Hamirpur on September 24 and 25, while in Bilaspur and Shimla district, schools will be closed only on Monday.

It is probably for the first time that Rohtang has experienced almost 4 ft snow in September. As per reports, there has been 2 ft snow in Keylong, 3 ft in Koksar and 4 ft snow in Rohtang and Baralacha Pass since last night. Several vehicles are reported to be stranded between Rohtang and Koksar, resulting in traffic being suspended on the Manali-Leh road. The higher reaches of Chamba and Pangi too witnessed heavy snowfall.

Rain washed away the 5-MW powerhouse at Kured in the Bharmour area of Chamba. Vehicular movement on the Gramphu-Kaza road connecting Lahaul with Spiti too has been stopped as more than 40 vehicles are stranded in snow. Snapping of all communication means has resulted in there being no exact idea of how many people stranded enroute. There has been loss of many cattle head in Chamba district.