Patiala tourist dies of high-altitude sickness in Lahaul-Spiti

A 54-year-old tourist from Patiala died on Sunday on the Manali-Leh national highway in Lahaul and Spiti due to sudden respiratory distress, likely caused by high-altitude sickness.

Varinderjit Pandher was a resident of Aman Bagh Colony, Jhill, Patiala.

According to Lahaul-Spiti SP Ilma Afroz, the region’s high-altitude and low oxygen levels can be dangerous, especially for people with respiratory problems.

Authorities have warned that areas beyond Darcha towards Leh and the stretch between Gramphu and Losar on the Sumdo-Kaza-Gramphu highway are particularly risky, with limited or no mobile network, making emergency response difficult.

Police have advised tourists to take precautions, including avoiding travel to high-altitude areas, if they have breathing issues. Visitors are urged to carry oxygen cylinders, oxygen tablets and first-aid kits. Staying hydrated by sipping water in small amounts is also recommended.