Heavy snow disrupts traffic on Manali-Leh highway; police issue travel advisory

Heavy snow has disrupted travel and cut off Lahaul Valley from the rest of Himachal Pradesh, blocking the crucial Manali-Leh highway and stranding locals and travellers.

The region, which is part of the tribal district of Lahaul and Spiti, is facing severe weather conditions with snow accumulation reaching up to 60 cm on the road connecting Atal Tunnel's North Portal to Keylong-Jispa.

The snow has rendered the road unfit for traffic.

The Lahaul-Spiti police have issued a travel advisory, urging all travelers to avoid the Manali-Leh route until further notice.

The closure of this highway has significantly impacted transportation, with no vehicular movement allowed on the affected stretch.

Motorists and tourists planning to travel in or out of the area have been advised to adjust their travel plans accordingly.

Lahaul-Spiti Deputy Commissioner Rahul Kumar assured the locals and visitors that efforts to restore the road connectivity would begin as soon as weather conditions improve.

"The Border Roads Organisation and the PWD are on the standby and will deploy their workforce and machinery to clear key roads once the weather permits it," the DC said.

The Deputy Commissioner warned people against unnecessary travel, particularly into high-altitude areas prone to snow avalanches.

Travellers have been advised to remain patient and stay informed through official channels for updates on road conditions and weather.