With the extended Christmas weekend and ahead of New Year 230254 celebrations, hill-state Himachal Pradesh witnessed an overwhelming surge in number of tourists. Thousands of visitors are flocking to the region to celebrate the new year amid the picturesque landscapes of Himachal Pradesh. Visuals of thousands of tourists stuck in a massive traffic jam from across the state have gone viral on social media. Among the top attractions, the Atal Tunnel in Rohtang emerged as a prime destination, connecting Kullu and Lahaul & Spiti, drawing in a substantial number of tourists. 

Now, amid the upsurge in tourist arrivals for New Year celebrations, all restaurants, dhabas, tea stalls, and eateries across Himachal Pradesh have received authorisation to operate round the clock until January 5. The decision, as per an official statement, was endorsed by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, following recommendations from Shimla, Manali, and Kasauli's MLAs. The move aims to accommodate and facilitate tourists, granting businesses the flexibility to remain open 24/7 without police intervention, as per the notification issued by the government. “Eateries and shops willing to operate round the clock to serve tourists will face no shutter-down directives from law enforcement agencies. These directives are set to remain effective until January 5, ensuring extended operational hours for eateries across the state during the festive season,” CM Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu said.