Border Roads Organisation begins snow clearance operations along Manali-Leh highway

With the winter receding in the mountainous regions, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has commenced snow clearance operations along the strategic Manali-Leh highway.

The road, which connects Ladakh with the rest of India, remains closed for several months in winter due to heavy snow in the higher reaches.

The operations are being undertaken by BRO's Project Himank, which is responsible for road construction and maintenance in southern Ladakh.

"The operation aims at restoring connectivity along the strategic highway, which serves as a lifeline for both civilians and Defence personnel operating in the region," BRO sources said.

The ongoing operation is being carried out in extreme weather conditions, with teams of skilled personnel and heavy machinery deployed to clear massive snow accumulations along key stretches of the highway.

The 427-km Manali-Leh route is part of National Highway-3 and is vital for transport and logistics, especially for the armed forces stationed in the high-altitude areas of Ladakh.

It is the second link to the sensitive northern sector after the Jammu-Srinagar-Leh national highway, which also remains closed in winters.

The snow clearance teams of 753 Border Roads Task Force are working relentlessly in sub-zero temperatures, tackling snow drifts ranging between 10 to 15 feet at multiple locations along the route, sources said.

The operation is particularly challenging near the 17,500-feet-high Tanglang La, which witnesses extreme snowfall and frequent avalanches.

The average elevation of the route is 13,000 feet. Baralacha La, Nakee La and Lachulung La, all above 15,000 feet, are other important passes on this axis which also remain inaccessible in winter.

Rohtang Pass near Manali, the first major pass on this route and a popular tourist spot, also remains off limits in winter, but the recently commissioned Atal Tunnel bypassing it provides all weather access to areas beyond it.