Click it and Unblock the Notifications
The Manali-Leh national highway, a popular route for road travellers in India, has been officially closed for the year. The closure, which was effective from November 20, is a result of the prevailing cold weather conditions and the potential hazards associated with driving during this period. The administrators of Lahaul-Spiti and Ladakh issued this directive, announcing the closure of key roads including Gramphu-Kaza, Darcha-Sarchu, and Darcha-Shinku La.
Precautionary Measures for Traveller Safety
The key reason behind this measure is to ensure the safety of travellers by mitigating the risks posed by icy roads. The closure will last approximately six months, until around May of the following year. This period allows the natural melting of snow on the highway. Officials from the Lahaul administration emphasised the seriousness of this closure, stating strict action would be taken against those found violating the orders and attempting to traverse the route during this period.
Limited Movement Permitted
Despite the closure, officials have clarified that vehicle movement from Manali to Darcha will be permitted, which will also depend on favourable weather conditions. The decision to shut down the Leh-Manali road has been due to reasons like vehicles getting stranded due to the challenging cold weather conditions and reports of icy roads, especially at elevated mountain passes.
Lahaul-Spiti Police and BRO Rescue Operations
Notably, the Manali-Leh route sees numerous rescues each year as travellers often find themselves stranded. Lahaul-Spiti police and the Border Roads Organization (BRO) play a crucial role in these rescue operations. Two instances of snowfall have already been reported in October and November this year, which further prompted the closure of the highway, which is also aimed at prioritising public safety amid challenging weather conditions.
The annual closure of the Manali-Leh highway is a crucial measure to ensure the safety of travellers. It's a reminder of the harsh conditions that can prevail in these high-altitude regions during the winter months. While the closure may cause inconvenience to some, the priority is always the safety and well-being of all road users. Travellers are advised to adhere to these directives and plan their trips accordingly.
