Roads to remote Lahaul-Spiti villages cleared of snow; farmers relieved

After days of distress caused by unseasonal heavy snowfall, the residents of remote Yoche, Rangyo and Baryo villages under Darcha Panchayat in Lahaul-Spiti district have finally received a much-needed respite. The Public Works Department (PWD) today successfully restored road connectivity to these remote villages, allowing farmers to transport their snowbound potato and apple crops to markets.

Earlier this week, the region witnessed more than three feet of snow, paralysing normal life and leaving agricultural produce stranded in fields. Roads leading to several villages, especially in the higher reaches of the district, were blocked, badly affecting transportation of cash crops like apples and potatoes, which are vital to the local economy.

Former MLA and BJP leader Ravi Thakur had raised concern over the situation, urging the PWD to begin immediate snow-clearance operation. He also appealed to Lahaul Potato Society (LPS) management to expedite the lifting of potato crop from the affected villages.

Responding swiftly, PWD authorities have cleared the snow and restored vehicular movement to the villages. The road restoration has brought huge relief to the farmers, who were anxiously waiting to send their produce to distant markets.

Tsewang Norboo, pradhan of Darcha gram panchayat, confirmed the restoration of connectivity and appreciated the efforts of the administration. “The road reopening has come as big relief to farmers. Their apple and potato produce was stuck due to the road blockade. Now, they can transport it to the markets in time,” he said.

The heavy snowfall, though common in winter months, came unexpectedly early this October, catching many farmers off guard. The premature snow damaged apple orchards and buried harvested potato crops in snow-covered fields, adding to the woes of the region’s agrarian community.

With road access restored, the farmers are hopeful of timely crop transportation and compensation for damages.