Gramphu-Losar stretch shut for winter as Spiti braces for isolation

In a significant seasonal development, the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), Lahaul and Spiti, has announced the closure of the Gramphu-Losar stretch of Sumdo-Kaza-Gramphu National Highway-505 from November 25 until further orders. The order, issued on November 21, cites black icing and extreme cold conditions as the reasons for the shutdown, marking the beginning of the annual winter isolation of Spiti Valley from the Lahaul and Manali side.

Authorities have urged all residents, commuters and tourists to follow the guidelines of the district administration strictly and avoid journey on this route after its closure. With temperatures plummeting and road surfaces turning treacherous, the administration has stressed the importance of adhering to safety advisories to avoid accidents.

Tourists and common visitors have also been reminded by the administration that after closure of this road stretch on November 25, the travel will be entirely at their own risk, given the unpredictable and harsh weather conditions typical of this time of the year. Hotel and homestay owners across the region have been directed to inform and brief their guests about the restrictions and the potential travel hazards.

The police and local authorities have been instructed by the Deputy Commissioner Lahaul and Spiti Kiran Bhadhana to manage traffic efficiently and ensure compliance with the winter protocols.

The Gramphu-Losar stretch, part of the Sumdo-Kaza-Gramphu highway, serves as a vital link connecting Spiti Valley with Lahaul and Manali. The closure of this route is an annual occurrence as the region receives heavy snowfall, particularly around the 14,931 feet high Kunzum Pass, rendering the road impassable for several months.

\/With the shutdown, Spiti Valley is expected to remain cut off from the Manali and Lahaul side for the entire winter season, relying instead on limited connectivity from the Kinnaur side, which itself faces periodic disruptions.

The advisory, issued by the Lahaul and Spiti DC emphasises that the measures are being taken strictly in the interest of public as winter conditions in the region intensify. The administration has appealed to the public to cooperate and stay informed through official channels as the winter progresses.