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Fresh snowfall has kept at least 72 roads across Himachal Pradesh blocked for the second consecutive week, while only about a quarter of the over 100 roads that remained dysfunctional through the last week has been opened for vehicles, officials said on Tuesday. Sixty-one roads in <keyword id="72820" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="lahaul" source="Orion">Lahaul</keyword> and <keyword id="6395658" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="spiti" source="Orion">Spiti</keyword>, five in Kullu including the Rohtang Pass route, three in Kangra, two in Chamba and one in Sirmaur districts are still closed for traffic, they said. With the minimum temperature dipping, nights have become colder. Kukumseri in the tribal Lahaul and Spiti was the coldest, recording a low of minus 3.5 degrees Celsius, followed by <keyword id="540646" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="keylong" source="Orion">Keylong</keyword> at minus 3.2 <keyword id="15586305" type="General" weightage="80" keywordseo="deg-c" source="Orion">deg C</keyword>, while <keyword id="817635" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="kalpa" source="Orion">Kalpa</keyword> saw a minimum of 0.8 deg C. The key tourist resorts in Manali, Narkanda, Shimla, Dalhousie and Dharamshala registered a minimum of 3.2 deg C, 5.8 deg C, 7.6 deg C, 7.7 deg C and 10.2 deg C, respectively. The local meteorological office has predicted dry weather in the region for the next five days. SEE ALSO: <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/sustainability/news/govt-raises-concerns-on-growing-tobacco-crisis-in-india-says-we-are-sitting-on-a-ticking-timebomb/articleshow/95682791.cms">Govt raises concerns on growing tobacco crisis in India, says "we are sitting on a ticking timebomb"</a> <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/sustainability/news/india-australia-to-share-critical-resources-and-minerals-to-help-co-transition-to-net-zero-emission-target/articleshow/95683430.cms">India-Australia to share critical resources and minerals to help co-transition to net zero emission target</a>

Fresh snowfall keeps at least 72 roads across Himachal blocked for second week

As the scorching summer sun beats down upon the Indian subcontinent, seeking refuge in cold destinations becomes a compelling choice for many. While India is renowned for its sweltering summers, it also boasts several picturesque locations where one can find respite from the heat and revel in the beauty of nature's cooler landscapes. From snow-capped mountains to lush green valleys, here's a guide to some of the most enchanting cold places to visit in India during May. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Ladakh" comment="subhead" text="Ladakh"><keyword id="26604" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Ladakh" source="Orion">Ladakh</keyword></cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="1" msid="110031327" hostid="261" sizebytes="1834149" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Majestic mountains and turquoise lakes await in the pristine landscapes of Ladakh&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Ladakh captivates visitors with its otherworldly landscapes. Accessed via adventurous roads or by air, it boasts Pangong Lake's ethereal blue waters, the ancient monastic serenity of Thiksey and Hemis Monasteries, and the magnetic charm of Magnetic Hill. Trekking through Nubra Valley's sand dunes or rafting down exhilarating rapids are just a few of the adventures awaiting in this high-altitude desert, making Ladakh a haven for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. How to Reach: Ladakh can be reached by air or road. The Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport is well-connected to major Indian cities. Alternatively, adventurous souls can embark on a thrilling road trip via Manali-Leh Highway or Srinagar-Leh Highway. Best Places to Visit: Ladakh is adorned with breathtaking landscapes. Visit Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, Magnetic Hill, Shanti Stupa, and Leh Palace for a memorable experience. Things to Do: Explore monasteries such as Thiksey Monastery and Hemis Monastery to delve into the region's rich cultural heritage. Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in activities like trekking, river rafting, and camel safaris. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Shimla, Himachal Pradesh" comment="subhead" text="Shimla, Himachal Pradesh">Shimla, Himachal Pradesh</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="2" msid="110031274" hostid="261" sizebytes="1350077" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Colonial charm meets scenic vistas in the hill station of Shimla&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Shimla, the erstwhile summer capital of British India, continues to enchant you with its colonial charm and scenic splendour. Accessible by road, rail, or air, it offers strolls along the bustling Mall Road, panoramic views from the Ridge, and spiritual solace at Jakhu Temple. Christ Church's Gothic architecture and the snowy escapades at Kufri add to the city's allure, making it a beloved destination for families, honeymooners, and nature lovers seeking respite from the <keyword id="21177616" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="summer-heat" source="keywords">summer heat</keyword>. How to Reach: Shimla is accessible by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is in Chandigarh, approximately 113 kilometres away. The Kalka-Shimla Railway offers a scenic train journey, while buses and taxis ply regularly from nearby cities like Delhi and Chandigarh. Best Places to Visit: Mall Road, The Ridge, Jakhu Temple, Christ Church, and Kufri are among the must-visit attractions in Shimla. Don't miss a ride on the historic Shimla toy train. Things to Do: Enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas, go trekking in the surrounding hills, or simply stroll through the lush greenery. Indulge in shopping for local handicrafts and souvenirs on Mall Road. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Darjeeling, West Bengal" comment="subhead" text="Darjeeling, West Bengal">Darjeeling, West Bengal</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="3" msid="110031266" hostid="261" sizebytes="2319147" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Misty mornings and tea-scented air in the enchanting hills of Darjeeling&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Darjeeling is known for its misty mountains and tea-scented air. Reached via scenic train rides or winding roads, it offers sunrise spectacles at Tiger Hill, spiritual introspection at Peace Pagoda, and playful moments at Batasia Loop. The Himalayan Zoo's red pandas and the historic charm of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Museum add to the region's allure, making it a beloved destination for tea aficionados and mountain enthusiasts alike. How to Reach: Bagdogra Airport is the nearest airport, situated around 70 kilometres from Darjeeling. New Jalpaiguri Railway Station is well-connected to major cities like Kolkata and Delhi. From there, you can take a scenic drive or board the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, famously known as the "Toy Train." Best Places to Visit: Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Peace Pagoda, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, and Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Museum are some of the top attractions. Things to Do: Experience the ethereal beauty of sunrise at Tiger Hill, take a joy ride on the Toy Train, explore tea estates, and sample delectable Tibetan cuisine at local eateries. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Manali, Himachal Pradesh" comment="subhead" text="Manali, Himachal Pradesh"><keyword id="19939901" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Manali" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Manali" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Manali">Manali</keyword>, Himachal Pradesh</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="4" msid="110031258" hostid="261" sizebytes="2205192" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Adventure beckons amidst snow-capped peaks in the picturesque town of Manali&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Manali, cradled in the arms of Himachal Pradesh, beckons you with its snow-capped peaks and gushing rivers. Accessible by road from bustling cities, it offers adrenaline-pumping adventures in Solang Valley, ancient spirituality at Hidimba Devi Temple, and a walk through Old Manali's cobbled streets. Rohtang Pass's panoramic vistas and Manu Temple's tranquil ambience add to the region's charm, making it a hotspot for adventurers, honeymooners, and nature lovers alike. How to Reach: Manali can be reached via road from cities like Delhi and Chandigarh. The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport, approximately 50 kilometres away. Regular buses and taxis ply from nearby towns and cities. Best Places to Visit: Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley, Hidimba Devi Temple, Manu Temple, and Old Manali are popular attractions in Manali. Things to Do: Engage in adventure sports like paragliding, skiing, and river rafting in Solang Valley. Trek to picturesque villages like Malana and Tosh, or simply unwind amidst the serene surroundings. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh" comment="subhead" text="Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh">Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="6" msid="110031240" hostid="261" sizebytes="1988674" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Ancient monasteries and panoramic views await in the tranquil valleys of Tawang&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Tawang enthrals you with its pristine beauty and ancient monastic traditions. Accessed by air or adventurous road trips, it offers spiritual enlightenment at Tawang Monastery, breathtaking vistas from Sela Pass, and serene moments at Pankang Teng Tso Lake. The heroic tales at Jaswant Garh War Memorial and the cascading beauty of Nuranang Falls add to the region's allure, making it a haven for spiritual seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. How to Reach: The nearest airport is in Tezpur, Assam, approximately 317 kilometres away. From there, you can hire a cab or board a bus to Tawang. Alternatively, you can reach Tawang via road from Guwahati or Tezpur. Best Places to Visit: Tawang Monastery, Sela Pass, Jaswant Garh War Memorial, Pankang Teng Tso Lake, and Nuranang Falls are some of the must-visit places. Things to Do: Explore the ancient Tawang Monastery, witness the stunning vistas from Sela Pass, and visit war memorials to pay homage to the brave soldiers. Enjoy yak rides and savour local delicacies for an authentic experience. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Keylong, Himachal Pradesh" comment="subhead" text="Keylong, Himachal Pradesh">Keylong, Himachal Pradesh</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="7" msid="110031220" hostid="261" sizebytes="2055103" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Snow-capped peaks and serene valleys offer a tranquil escape in Keylong&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Situated in the rugged terrain of Himachal Pradesh, Keylong welcomes you with its serene beauty. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and verdant valleys, it offers a tranquil escape from the summer heat. Chandratal Lake's shimmering waters, the ancient charm of Kardang and Shashur Monasteries, and the adventurous allure of Baralacha Pass beckon travellers to explore this hidden gem. Keylong's pristine landscapes and rich cultural heritage make it an idyllic destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. How to Reach: Keylong is accessible by road, and the nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport, approximately 180 kilometres away. Keylong can be reached by driving from Manali via the Manali-Leh Highway. Best Places to Visit: Surrounded by towering mountains and lush green valleys, Keylong offers a serene ambience. Chandratal Lake, Kardang Monastery, Shashur Monastery, and Baralacha Pass are among the prominent attractions. Things to Do: Explore the captivating beauty of Chandratal Lake, embark on treks to nearby villages, and visit ancient monasteries to experience the region's cultural heritage. Enjoy camping under the starlit sky and relish local delicacies for a wholesome experience. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand" comment="subhead" text="Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand"><keyword id="20396441" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Pithoragarh" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Pithoragarh" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Pithoragarh">Pithoragarh</keyword>, Uttarakhand</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="8" msid="110031208" hostid="261" sizebytes="1955333" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Majestic Himalayan landscapes and ancient temples await in the picturesque town of Pithoragarh&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Set against the majestic backdrop of the Himalayas, Pithoragarh exudes an aura of mystique and tranquillity. Blessed with breathtaking vistas and historical landmarks, it offers you a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Explore the wilderness of Askot Sanctuary, delve into the ancient history at Pithoragarh Fort, or seek solace at the sacred Kapileshwar Mahadev Temple. Patal Bhuvaneshwar Cave Temple's mystical chambers add to the region's spiritual allure while trekking trails and birdwatching spots beckon adventurers and nature lovers to uncover the treasures of this Himalayan paradise. How to Reach: Pithoragarh is well-connected by road, and the nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, approximately 200 kilometres away. Regular buses and taxis ply from nearby cities like Haldwani and Almora. Best Places to Visit: Pithoragarh is renowned for its scenic beauty and historical significance. Visit Askot Sanctuary, Pithoragarh Fort, Kapileshwar Mahadev Temple, and Patal Bhuvaneshwar Cave Temple for a memorable experience. Things to Do: Explore the rich biodiversity of Askot Sanctuary, witness panoramic views of the Himalayas from Pithoragarh Fort, and seek spiritual solace at ancient temples. Trekking, birdwatching, and nature walks are popular activities in the region. These cold destinations offer a perfect escape from the scorching heat of summer, providing a refreshing retreat amidst nature's bounty. Whether you're seeking adventure, cultural exploration, or simply tranquillity, these places in India have something to offer for everyone. So pack your bags, embark on a journey, and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of these captivating destinations. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Frequently asked questions" comment="subhead" text="Frequently asked questions">Frequently asked questions</cmsannotation> 1. What is the best time to visit Ladakh? Ladakh is best visited during the summer months, from May to September, when the weather is pleasant and roads are accessible. However, some adventurous travellers also visit during winter to experience the magical frozen landscapes and unique winter festivals. 2. Are there any altitude sickness concerns when travelling to Shimla? While Shimla itself is not at a very high altitude, some visitors may experience mild altitude sickness, especially if coming from lower altitudes. It's advisable to take it easy for the first day, stay hydrated, and avoid heavy meals. If symptoms persist, seeking medical advice is recommended. 3. How can I travel to Darjeeling from Bagdogra Airport? From Bagdogra Airport, travellers can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to Darjeeling, which is approximately a 3-4 hour drive depending on road conditions. Alternatively, one can take a pre-booked private transfer or opt for a scenic train ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway from New Jalpaiguri Railway Station. 4. What adventure activities are available in Manali during May? In May, visitors to Manali can indulge in a variety of adventure activities including paragliding, river rafting, trekking, and zorbing in Solang Valley. The weather is ideal for outdoor adventures, and several local adventure operators offer guided tours and equipment rental services. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/travel/india/webstories/10-breathtaking-indian-islands-to-visit-this-summer/slidelist/109952791.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Most beautiful islands to visit in India in summer</a>

7 cold destinations in India to escape the summer heat in May

<ul><li>Situated in a valley flanked by majestic pine-covered <keyword id="28910" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="mountains">mountains</keyword> with the Beas River meandering through, Manali offers truly idyllic views and a chill atmosphere to boot.</li><li>The thrill-seekers out there also have a plethora of adventure sports activities to choose from, including paragliding, trekking and rafting.</li><li>An excellent option for those seeking out seclusion is a day trip to Sissu village and Keylong.</li></ul>The scorching plains, inevitably, have people craving for an easy trip to a mountainous destination. But if you wish to be nestled amidst snow-clad peaks with a gushing river piercing through the terrain, you will need to travel farther, navigate not-so-great roads and will definitely need more time and patience. No, we are not talking about a trip as arduous as a road trip to Leh; we are talking about a much more manageable road trip to Manali and nearby places. <div type="image" title="Manali mountainscapes" msid="82002884" hostid="261"></div>Situated in a valley flanked by majestic pine-covered mountains with the Beas River meandering through, Manali offers truly idyllic views and a chill atmosphere to boot. With superb panoramas of the Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal ranges from all directions, it is hard not to fall for Manali's evergreen charm. However, with a massive influx of tourists, most of whom have little regard for the environment, the city and most places around have garbage blemishing both the riverside and the mountainside. But the true magic of the place powers through and despite these eyesores, a quick pan up to see the mountains in their majestic glory compensates for the heartache the litter causes. That said, there are plenty of brilliant treks that take you to tiny brooks amidst conifer-clad valleys in and around Manali should you wish some time away from the manic crowds. The thrill-seekers out there also have a plethora of adventure sports activities to choose from, including paragliding, trekking and rafting. But do note that these activities are weather dependent, so it's best to check in advance. In general, rafting takes place all year round excluding the monsoon periods. The months of May, June and September are supposed to be the best time for paragliding. Skiing opens in Solang Valley soon after the first snowfall in January and continues till March. Other popular tourist spots in Manali include the Hadimba Temple dedicated to Bhima's demon wife. Sporting a multi-tiered pagoda, the temple is set amidst towering deodars, and the complex also has a shrine dedicated to their son Ghatotkacha. <div type="image" title="Old Manali" msid="82002929" hostid="261"></div>Apart from a very chill atmosphere, Old Manali also hosts the age-old Manu Temple dedicated to the sage Manu who penned the Manusmriti. Oozing with character and old-world charm, Old Manali is truly a must-visit. Please note, there is nothing much to see here, but the place gives you a laid-back feeling. Walk uphill through the narrow lanes, watch the stray dogs just lay there in absolute bliss, witness the locals tending to their cows, indulge in a bit of shopping at some very kitschy shops lining both sides of the lane and then head straight to the pub to rest those tired feet. <div type="image" title="Jogini Falls" msid="82002970" hostid="261"></div>Those with a religious inclination should also visit the Vashisht Temple and so should those who don't, mainly because this is the starting point of the hike to the spectacular Jogini Falls. The walk to the falls takes around an hour and makes for a great place to picnic while soaking in the views. (Please note: Do take all essentials like water and food with you but more importantly, take an extra bag to dump your garbage in and bring it back with you for proper disposal.) Beyond city limits The 3977-metre high snow-cloaked <keyword id="391219" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Rohtang-Pass">Rohtang Pass</keyword> is an obvious choice for those scoping out breathtaking views. However, as is the case with most popular places, the <keyword id="43735" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="pass">Pass</keyword> has been defiled by an endless barrage of tourists, trash and traffic. Thankfully, now, only a small number of vehicles are allowed to visit, and a permit must be obtained to do so. Also, note that the Pass is only open from June to October. <div type="image" title="Manali Leh Road" msid="82002997" hostid="261"></div>An excellent option for those seeking out seclusion is a day trip to Sissu village and Keylong. This epic drive involves crossing the newly-constructed <keyword id="8486907" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="atal-tunnel">Atal Tunnel</keyword> and gasping with disbelief when you see what's in store at the end of the tunnel. The terrain is nothing short of magic. The snowy mountain peaks, the river accompanying it on one side, countered by barren -- but just as majestic -- mountainscapes, on the other. The drive to Keylong should take around 2 hours, from Manali. You can also venture further to Udaipur (3 hours from Manali), a town on Chandrabhaga River bank in Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh. But remember that since this is a day trip, you should account for the time it will take to get back. Also, there are not many places to stop for grub or the toilet apart from a few loosely-termed 'hotels' splattered along the way. <div type="image" title="Welcomheritage Urvashi Retreat" msid="82003009" hostid="261"></div>Places to stay From budget no-frills hotels to spectacular heritage properties, the town has a place for everyone. The <a href="https://www.urvashisretreat.com/">Welcomheritage Urvashi Retreat</a> is a fabulous option for those who want gorgeous views along with all the creature comforts. The property is secluded from the hustle and bustle and the staff is delightful and eagerly tell you about the best places to visit nearby. Should you be looking for something more affordable, you can opt to stay at <a href="https://www.sterlingholidays.com/resorts-hotels/manali">Sterling Manali</a>. The rooms have beautiful views, but the upkeep is a little lacking. <div type="image" title="Il Ferno" msid="82003033" hostid="261"></div>Places to eat and drink Manali has a bunch of brilliant places to eat and drink. Serving up various cuisines, Manali also has quite a few resto-pubs with a range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Travel and food writer, Pallavi Pasricha, tells us, "I always make it a point to visit Johnson's Cafe to have their legendary trout. On my last trip, I discovered two new places – Il Forno which has excellent pizzas and Rocky's Café, a 10-minute walk from the Old Manali market – both have stunning views of the mountains. Sipping a beer from there will now always be on my agenda whenever I visit Manali next." Old Manali also has the Dylan's Toasted &amp; Roasted Coffee House, where you can soak in the laid-back atmosphere while sipping on excellent coffee accompanied by hot-out-of-the-oven cookies. Another well-known pub in Old Manali is The Lazy Dog. The riverside outdoor seating area here is the perfect place to wind down with a glass of hot toddy and snacks. Another place to check out if you wish to chill by the river is Cafe 1947, which is a slightly pricier option, but the ambience and the food are certainly worth experiencing. <div type="image" title="Jibhi" msid="82003043" hostid="261"></div>Veer off the highway Should you wish for an even more secluded location, Shweta Andrews, who runs a Delhi-based bakery called Bakes Ahoy, recommends a tiny village called Jibhi in Himachal Pradesh. It is just a 3-hour drive from Manali. Andrews says, "This is an off-beat travel destination in its true sense. It's a place for people who are looking to detox -- digitally, physically and mentally." Andrews and friends opted for an Airbnb called <a href="https://www.airbnb.co.uk/rooms/45643018?check_out=2021-05-05&amp;adults=2&amp;check_in=2021-04-30&amp;s=13&amp;unique_share_id=D25340A4-9FFD-44D0-9E7F-2E8486D2DF7D&amp;_branch_match_id=908942267948210284&amp;source_impression_id=p3_1617946965_i%2BsKhQcTG4duws7Y">Sunny Cottage Near The River</a>, situated on a farm right by the river. "The hosts truly went out of their way to make our stay most enjoyable. Bonfires by night and picnics on the banks by day are things that one cannot enjoy in crowded or commercial holiday destinations. Plus the food was genuinely a farm-to-plate experience as well," Andrews adds. A must-visit from here is the Jalori Pass, where one can experience incredible views of the <keyword id="52569" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="himalayas">Himalayas</keyword>. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/mobile/news/nokia-x20-specifications-nokia-new-phones-price-in-india/articleshow/81981039.cms">SIx new Nokia smartphones announced – price, specifications and availability details you should know</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/startups/news/founders-take-note-heres-why-most-startups-fail/articleshow/81981138.cms">Founders, take note: here’s why most startups fail</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/apps/news/google-phone-app-now-lets-you-record-calls-automatically-from-unknown-numbers/articleshow/81982791.cms">Google Phone app now lets you record calls automatically from unknown numbers</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/startups/news/adar-poonawalla-serum-institute-of-india-has-bought-stake-policybazaar/articleshow/81985425.cms">Serum Institute of India buys into IPO-bound insurance unicorn PolicyBazaar, as True North sells part stake in secondary sale</a>

Mountains, rivers, trout and toddy — Manali offers you all these and more

New Delhi, Nov 17 () State-owned Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) on Sunday began supplying a special winter-grade diesel to Ladakh, solving technical issues faced in fuel supply to high-altitude regions during extreme winter conditions.
 While IOC's Panipat refinery had flagged off the first consignment of truck carrying the special grade diesel last week, Home Minister Amit Shah presided over a function on Sunday to launch the fuel in the Ladakh region through a video link, an official statement said here.
 Motorists in high-altitude sectors such as Ladakh, Kargil, Kaza and Keylong face the problem of freezing of diesel in their vehicles when winter temperatures drop to as low as minus 30-degrees Celsius.
 "IOC has come up with an innovative solution to this problem by introducing a special winter-grade diesel with a low pour-point of minus 33-degrees Celsius, which does not lose its fluidity function even in extreme winter conditions," the statement said.
 Speaking on the occasion, Shah congratulated the people of Ladakh for getting their long-pending demand fulfilled by getting the Union Territory status for Ladakh.
 The new status will accelerate the pace of holistic development of the region and bring prosperity to the people at par with the rest of India, he said.
 The home minister said the Government of India has initiated a number of development projects for the UT of Ladakh in the areas of power, solar energy, education and tourism with an estimated investment of Rs 50,000 crore.
 He further said that keeping in view the special development requirement of the region, the Government of India has made a provision that the budget allocation for the UT of Ladakh will remain non-lapsable so as to enable the local administration to make full use of these funds as per their development needs.
 Shah assured the people of Ladakh that they will witness a fast pace of growth and development of the region under the decisive leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
 Oil Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said Ladakh will now get uninterrupted supply of special winter-grade diesel, which will help reduce the hardships faced by the local people for transportation and mobility during the harsh winter months.
 This will further facilitate the local economy as well as tourism of the region, he said.
 Using the normal grade of diesel becomes an arduous task for the people in the winter months where temperatures fall to sub-zero temperatures of nearly minus 30-degrees Celsius.
 However, the winter grade diesel produced by Panipat refinery for the first time has a pour point of minus 33-degree Celsius and does not lose its fluidity function even in the extreme winter weather of the region unlike the normal grade of diesel.
 The winter grade diesel also meets BIS specification of BS-VI grade diesel.
 The first delivery is being effected to the highest altitude retail outlets at Leh, an IOC statement said.
 While the first truck containing winter grade diesel has been flagged off from the Panipat Marketing Complex of IOC, subsequent supplies of winter grade diesel would be done from the Jalandhar oil terminal from where this fuel grade would reach the Leh and Kargil depot to meet demands of customers of Leh Ladakh region during peak winters, it added. ANZ HRS

IOC rolls out winter-grade diesel for Ladakh; Shah says committed to development of region

<ul><li>In <keyword id="387240" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Idukki-district">Idukki district</keyword>, the bodies of two men and a woman were recovered from debris and rescue operations continued to trace those missing in the landslide.</li><li>Personnel of NDRF, Fire, Forest and police departments have expanded their search operations to the downstream of a river in their efforts to trace 19 more people who are still missing in the August 7 tragedy near Rajamala.</li><li>Meanwhile, the water level at Mullaperiyar reservoir in Idukki district reached 136.85 feet on Tuesday.</li></ul> The death toll in the <keyword id="1798979" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="Idukki-landslide">Idukki landslide</keyword> rose to 52 with three more bodies being recovered on Tuesday as life limped to normalcy in Kerala even as the flood situation worsened in <keyword id="6354915" type="LOCATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="assam">Assam</keyword> and Bihar, affecting lakhs of people. In Idukki district, the bodies of two men and a woman were recovered from debris and rescue operations continued to trace those missing in the landslide. Personnel of NDRF, Fire, Forest and police departments have expanded their search operations to the downstream of a river in their efforts to trace 19 more people who are still missing in the August 7 tragedy near Rajamala. Meanwhile, the water level at Mullaperiyar reservoir in Idukki district reached 136.85 feet on Tuesday. With a let-up in the rains, water receded in many low-lying areas of Kottayam and Alappuzha districts. There was no red alert warning in any of the state's 14 districts as the intensity of rains had decreased and the affected areas had started limping back to normalcy. The flood situation in Bihar worsened as the water entered fresh areas, affecting over 62,000 more people in 16 districts, taking the number of flood victims to more than 75 lakh, a bulletin by the state Disaster Management Department bulletin said. The number of affected panchayats increased to 1,260 from Monday's 1,240 though that of the flood-hit districts remained at 16. There was no fresh report of deaths in flood-related incidents in the state and the figure stood at 24. The flood situation in Assam deteriorated on Tuesday with nearly 14,000 people across three districts being affected, an official bulletin said. On Monday, over 9,200 persons were suffering due to the deluge across four districts. According to the daily flood report of the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA), more than 13,800 persons are hit due to floods in Dhemaji, Baksa and Morigaon districts. Dhemaji is the worst-hit district with more than 12,000 people suffering, followed by Baksa (1,000 persons affected) and Morigaon (over 800 people). Meanwhile, the flood situation in Uttar Pradesh improved further as three districts were dropped from the list of affected places, officials said. On Monday, a total of 19 districts in the state were listed as affected by the flood, however, Mahrajganj, Pilibhit and Siddharth Nagar were removed from the list the next day, they said. Sixteen districts in the state are still in the official list of places affected by the floods. According to Relief Commissioner Sanjay Goyal, a total of 517 villages in these 16 districts are affected and 268 have got marooned. Sharda river in Palliakalan (Lakhimpur Kheri) and Ghaghra in Turtipar (Ballia) are flowing above the danger mark, he said, adding that relief and rescue operations are underway. Very heavy rainfall occurred at isolated places in western Uttar Pradesh, while some locations in the eastern part of the state received heavy showers. According to the meteorological department, light to moderate rainfall and thunderstorm, accompanied with lightening, also occurred at some places in the state. Rain or thundershower is very likely at most places in the state from Wednesday to Friday, the MeT department said. Delhi received sporadic light rains as high humidity continued to trouble residents. The Safdarjung Observatory, which provides representative figures for the city, recorded 8.6 mm rainfall till 5:30 pm. The Lodhi Road and Ayanagar weather stations recorded 3.2 mm and 1.3 mm precipitation, respectively. The city recorded a maximum of 36.8 degrees Celsius, two notches above normal, the meteorological department said. Earlier, the IMD had predicted 'moderate to heavy rains' in the city from Sunday evening to Wednesday. The IMD has forecast that heavy rainfall is likely in isolated places of coastal Maharashtra, including Mumbai, till August 15. While Mumbai is expected to receive light to moderate showers, neighbouring districts of Thane, Palghar, Raigad and Ratnagiri may witness heavy rains at isolated places, an IMD official said. "A similar forecast has been issued for Pune, Kolhapur and Satara districts as well till August 15. However, districts in North Maharashtra, Marathwada and Vidarbha may receive light to moderate rainfall in the same period," the official said. Some parts of Himachal Pradesh received light rainfall, with the MeT Department forecasting rains till August 17. Una and Nahan each received 2 mm rainfall, while Kangra 0.4 mm and Sundernagar 0.3 mm, Shimla MeT Dentre Director Manmohan Singh said. Rains have been forecast in the hill state till Monday. The maximum temperature in the state increased by one to two degrees during the last 24 hours, he added. The highest temperature in the state was recorded in Una at 34 degrees Celsius and the lowest in Keylong at 13 degrees Celsius, Singh said. In Punjab and Haryana, the maximum temperatures hovered close to normal. According to the MeT forecast, rain or thunder showers are likely at many places in Haryana and Punjab over the next two days. 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