India, Jan. 23 -- A prolonged four-month dry spell in Himachal Pradesh ended on Friday as fresh snowfall blanketed the state capital and the higher reaches of Chamba, Kullu-Manali, Lahaul-Spiti, Kangra, and Kinnaur. While the snow brought much-needed cheer to the hospitality and agriculture sectors, it also disrupted essential services in several pockets.

The change in weather follows a forecast by the Shimla Meteorological Centre, ending a period of inclement weather that began on Thursday night. For the state's orchardists and farmers, the snowfall is a significant reprieve. The extended dry conditions had sparked fears of massive crop failure and a decline in apple yields for the upcoming season.

Similarly, the tourism industry, whic...