Manali Grapples with Empty Streets and Cancellations Amidst Heavy Rain and Flooding
The picturesque tourist town of Manali, nestled in the hills of Himachal Pradesh, has fallen quiet in recent days. The vibrant Mall Road and other popular tourist spots including Solang Valley and its surrounding areas have been eerily deserted. This somber atmosphere is a consequence of the heavy rainfall that has recently battered Kullu and Mandi districts, including the renowned tourist hub of Manali.
The cause for the sudden tranquility is attributed to the widespread damage caused by incessant rain in the region. The impact of flooding in the Beas River has taken a toll on National Highway 3, leading to several sections being severely affected. Properties and infrastructure have also suffered substantial losses.
The aftermath of the heavy rainfall and flooding is being felt not only by the local population but also by the tourism industry. The once bustling town of Manali, known for its scenic beauty and vibrant tourist activity, now wears a deserted look, with hotels and businesses struggling to attract visitors. The cancellations of hotel bookings by tourists, largely due to the recent floods, have left many establishments devoid of guests.
Gagan and Sunny, business operators in the tourism sector, shared their thoughts on the situation. They mentioned that the lack of connectivity has led to cancellations of hotel bookings, and this, in turn, has put a strain on their financial situation. They expressed concern that their recovery from this setback will take time. With very few bookings and hesitant tourists, the prospect of rejuvenation seems distant.
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The anticipated boost in business that Gagan and Sunny hoped for on August 15 was dashed by the heavy rain and road damages in the Mandi district. Despite their initial optimism, the recent turn of events has once again left Manali in a state of desolation.
It remains to be seen how long it will take for Manali’s tourism sector to regain its momentum in the wake of this double blow from the recent downpours and the damaged roads. The local community and business owners are hopeful that efforts to restore infrastructure and regain the trust of tourists will soon breathe life back into this beloved hill station.
