Snow blocks Manali-Leh highway

Mandi, February 27

Mild snowfall near then Atal Tunnel on the Manali-Leh highway today blocked traffic movement for hours between Manali in Kullu district and Keylong in Lahaul and Spiti district.

According to official sources, due to strong winds, a large signage fell on the road near the Atal Tunnel towards the Sissu side at the north portal, disrupting traffic movement.

However, the Border Roads Organisation and the local police at Sissu in Lahaul and Spiti soon engaged the workforce and the machinery to clear the highway for traffic movement.

Lahaul and Spiti SP Manav Verma said that the highway had been restored for traffic between Manali and Keylong. He advised people to drive cautiously on the road, because it was prone for snow avalanches at several places.

There were reports of fresh snowfall in high altitude areas of Lahaul and Spiti, while in Kullu and Mandi districts rain occurred during the day time, leading to a slight fall in temperatures. — TNS