Manali-Leh bus service halted

Dipender Manta

Tribune News Service

Mandi, September 16

Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) has stopped its bus service on the Manali-Leh Highway in view of public safety as the road has become unsafe for traveling due to frost deposition.

It was hot a few days back but wintry conditions prevail all around the higher hills now in Himalayan ranges and key areas like Kullu, Lahaul-Spiti, Chamba and Kinnaur districts mainly because of snowfall and rainfall in the past few days. Temperatures have suddenly dipped and as a precautionary measure the HRTC has decided to stop its bus service on the Manali–Leh Highway.

Managal Chand Menepa, Regional Manager, HRTC Depot, at Keylong in tribal district Lahaul Spiti said that it had been snowing on the surrounding peaks. Baralacha Pass and Sarchu pass may also experience snowfall at any time. Though traffic flow on the Manali-Leh highway is normal for the time being it’s necessary to take preventive measures in advance.

He said “Due to plummeting temperature frost has started to deposit on the road from Lahaul ahead toward Leh, which makes the road slippery for vehicles”.

Ashwani Kumar Chaudhari, Deputy Commissioner, Lahaul Spiti, told The Tribune that travelers have been advised to be cautious and take precautionary measures when they plan a visit towards the Leh side. He said, “There was snowfall in peaks of Lahaul Spiti on Saturday, which caused the temperature to dip drastically. We are monitoring the situation minutely and directions will be given accordingly for the sake of public safety.”