HRTC resumes bus services on Aut-Luhri road

After being closed due to heavy snowfall in February and March, bus services on the Aut-Luhri highway route via the Jalori Pass in Kullu district were resumed today. The highway was blocked due to the accumulation of snow at the Jalori Pass but following a successful trial by the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) from the Kullu Depot yesterday, the bus service was restored.

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The resumption of bus services on this route, after a hiatus of about one-and-a-half month, has brought much-needed relief to 69 panchayats of Anni and Nirmand in Kullu district. These areas had been cut off from the district headquarters of Kullu due to snow at the Jalori Pass. With the restoration of bus services, residents can now easily travel to the district headquarters and access essential services.

The revival of bus services is expected to improve connectivity for the local population and also provide tourists with better access to some of the region’s most scenic spots. Areas like Jibhi, Ghyagi and Sojha in Banjar can now have an easier route to visit popular destinations such as the Jalori Pass, Raghupurgarh, and the Saryolsar Lake, all of which are key tourist attractions in the region.

The HRTC has resumed its operations on the Aut-Luhri highway, offering vital connectivity between the remote areas and the rest of the district. The buses will run as per the scheduled timetable, ensuring that the public can count on regular transportation services. This will make it easier for locals and tourists alike to travel across the rugged terrain and reach their desired destinations with less hassle.

The successful trial run, which took place yesterday, has been hailed as a significant achievement.

The local residents, including panchayat leaders, have expressed their gratitude to the authorities for the restoration of bus services. They mentioned that the resumption of operations would significantly ease travel for thousands of people in these remote areas, especially during the busy tourist season.

With the winter blockade finally lifted, this move will strengthen the region’s connectivity and boost both local tourism and commerce, making it a welcome development for the people of Anni, Nirmand and Banjar subdivisions.