Local Community in Himachal Pradesh Provides Shelter and Food Amid Highway Closure

In the wake of heavy rains and landslides that have closed the Manali-Leh highway, the local community in Lahaul Valley, Himachal Pradesh, has come together to support stranded travelers. Women from Stingri village are cooking warm meals, while the Lebhe Jogni Temple Committee and local youth are providing food, blankets, and shelter. This heartwarming display of solidarity highlights the strength of community spirit in times of adversity, turning a challenging situation into a testament of humanity.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 29, 2025, 15:25 IST

Stranded Travelers Find Hope in Lahaul Valley

Munish Sood
MANDI:
Heavy rainfall and landslides have resulted in the closure of the Manali-Leh highway, leaving numerous vehicles stranded in the remote Lahaul Valley of Himachal Pradesh. For two days, drivers and passengers have endured the biting cold, uncertain about when they might be able to continue their journey. However, amidst this challenging situation, a touching story of community support is emerging.

Women of Stingri Open Their Hearts and Kitchens

In the village of Stingri, local women have risen to the occasion, demonstrating remarkable kindness. They have gathered grains, vegetables, and firewood from their homes to prepare warm meals for the stranded travelers and truckers.

From dawn, these women came together to cook simple yet comforting meals that provided solace against the harsh mountain chill. One emotional driver expressed, “When we were anxious about food and warmth, these women treated us like family. Their kindness gave us the strength to wait.”

Community Efforts Amplified by Local Youth

The support extended further as members of the Lebhe Jogni Temple Committee established a community kitchen, ensuring that no one went hungry. Additionally, young volunteers from Yuva Mandal, Mooling, played a crucial role by delivering food to truckers stranded on the roadside and providing blankets and shelter to elderly travelers and children.

While the closure of the highway has caused significant inconvenience, the compassion displayed by the locals has transformed fear into comfort. In a valley often isolated by harsh weather and geographical challenges, the collective efforts of women, temple volunteers, and village youth serve as a powerful reminder that in times of adversity, humanity unites us all.