Acts of Good Samaritans stand out amid tales of greed in rain-ravaged Kullu-Manali

With no internet, cashless stranded tourists in Kullu-Manali couldn't make digital transactions and faced tough times

- ADITYA KANT

HAVOC IN THE HILLS - Part-3

Days after the monsoon and flash floods played havoc with the lives of locals and tourists, instances of opportunism and greed where local traders, hotel owners or cab drivers were seen making exorbitant demands for consumables or travel came to light in the townships. With no power and internet for about three to four days, several tourists soon after arriving at the safer places in and around the small markets of Bhuntar, Kullu and Manali were seen looking for a place to charge their mobile phones. Most of them were only too happy to pay Rs 100 to recharge and get their lifelines (charged phones) back.

With no internet services, digital transactions had stopped and most of the tourists were left with no cash. Arguments between shopkeepers and tourists was a common sight.

But despite all this, there were heartwarming acts of kindness by many good Samaritans that left a deep impression among the tourists.

“We were staying in a hotel by the riverside near Manali. After the administration's warning, the hotel owner requested us to vacate the premises. She not only took our bank account details to return our money but also accompanied us to ensure that we got a safer place to stay,” said Naveen Sharma, a resident of Ludhiana.