Himachal celebrates Republic Day amidst snow, rain

Braving bone-chilling chill amidst snowfall and rain, people on Thursday celebrated the Republic Day across Himachal Pradesh.

Governor Acharya Devvrat hoisted the flag at the main function at the historic Ridge here.

Shimla experienced showers and recorded the temperature of 4 degrees Celsius, while Keylong had a minus 1.1 degrees, Kalpa minus 0.8, and Manali minus 0.6. These towns recorded 47 cm, 34 cm and 22 cm of snow.

The state capital saw more than 29 mm of rainfall.

In Keylong, Deputy Commissioner Vivek Bhatia presided over the official function.

Despite the chill, people took part in flag-hoisting ceremonies and witnessed march-past by security personnel and cultural programmes by children at all 12 district towns.

The Governor took salute at an impressive parade by contingents of police, Indo-Tibetan Border Police, Home Guards, the army, NCC and former servicemen.

Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh, his cabinet colleagues, legislators and government officials were present at the function.

--IANS

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