Rohtang opens to tourists, Kullu hoteliers elated

Our Correspondent

Kullu, May 19

The Rohtang Pass was thrown open to tourists on Saturday. The road was cleared of snow on April 5, connecting the remote Lahaul valley to Kullu, but due to snow again, the BRO had to carry out snow-clearing operations a couple of times.

Tourist vehicles were allowed till Marhi, 35 km from Manali, from May 2 and only 1,200 vehicles were allowed to cross the Gulaba barrier daily as per the directions of the National Green Tribunal (NGT).

The DC said the tourists could get permits online for plying vehicles beyond the barrier for which they would have to pay Rs 550. The pass was thrown open to the tourists after obtaining the feasibility report from a joint inspection committee about the parking lot and toilet facilities for the tourists.

A team of officials visited Rohtang and found basic facilities in place. Rohtang Pass is a major attraction for the tourists visiting Kullu and Manali. Hoteliers will benefit as the opening of Rohtang will increase the footfall of tourists.

The DC said the adequate traffic police had been deployed at various places between Manali and Rohtang. The tourism industry has heaved a sigh of relief as the inflow of tourists will increase. As many as 800 petrol and 400 diesel vehicles will be permitted to go to Rohtang on a first-come, firs-serve basis daily.