Shimla, December 25
Even as white Christmas eluded thousands of tourists, who came here hoping for a snowfall, the day was marked with festivity. Prayer service was held at a number of churches and chapels in the town.
Despite freezing temperatures and bad weather during the past four days, Christmas revellers woke up to a bright sunny day. Hotels in the town and the vicinity were packed to capacity.
Prayers were held at St Michael’s Catholic Church amidst a glittering ceremony attended by a large number of people. Parties were organised on the eve of Christmas at all prominent private and Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) hotels last night.
The administration has made special arrangements to maintain law and order and regulate traffic in view of the heavy rush of tourists. For vehicles, the administration had opened the road from Boileauganj to Chaura Maidan.
The proposed band display on the Ridge Maidan was postponed due to national mourning.
The Tourism Department and Excise officials have directed hoteliers to display proper rate lists and maintain proper records of visitors. All officials have been directed to ensure that there is no fleecing of tourists by porters.
The Tourist Information Centres at the Mall and Victory Hotel will provide information and help from 8 a.m to 10 p.m till the New Year.
