Traffic disrupted in Lahaul valley

A fresh spell of snowfall in the Lahaul valley today disrupted traffic movement and brought daily life in Lahaul and Spiti district to a standstill. The snowfall, which began in the morning, resulted in the accumulation of 30 cm of fresh snow near the Atal Tunnel on the Manali-Leh highway and 10 cm at the district headquarters of Keylong.

The Manali administration restricted traffic movement beyond Nehru Kund from Manali towards Keylong but allowed 4x4 vehicles to ply up to Solang Nala. Beyond Solang Nala, traffic movement had been completely restricted in view of public safety. Despite the restrictions, many tourists reached Solang Nala to enjoy snow activities.

Meanwhile, the district administration advised people to avoid unnecessary journey between Keylong and Manali until the weather conditions improve.

Deputy Commissioner, Lahaul and Spiti, Rahul Kumar said that considerable snowfall had occurred in the Lahaul valley, affecting traffic movement. He added that snow clearance operations to restore key roads in the district would begin as soon as the weather improves.

In lower parts of Mandi and Kullu districts, rain was observed throughout the day while higher reaches of both districts received fresh snow and as a result the temperatures fell drastically in the region.