Avoid travelling to Kullu, Manali: Himachal Police

The Himachal Pradesh Police Wednesday advised tourists to avoid travelling to the tourist resorts of Kullu and Manali due to the snapping of road links after last week's heavy snowfall.

Since restoration of all services will take time, the tourists should plan their travel to Kullu and Manali only after a green signal from the administration, Inspector General P.L. Thakur said in a statement.

Police said all tourists, except 27, have been rescued from between Manali and Rohtang Pass, some 52 km from Manali. "Now 27 people, including two children, have been kept at the rescue hut in Marhi (some 35 km from Manali)."

Electricity, water supply and other services have not been restored in Kullu and Manali. However, road connectivity between both the towns has been partially restored, but only for light vehicles like cars and cabs.

The police said it was not known when the electricity and water supply would be restored.

"Traffic on the left bank of the Beas river from Kullu and Manali is still closed," the police added.