Heavy snowfall and rain have severely impacted road connectivity in Himachal Pradesh’s Lahaul-Spiti district, leading to the closure of crucial routes and stranding tourists near Keylong. Police have initiated rescue operations to assist those affected by the adverse weather conditions.
Key Roads Remain Closed Amidst Adverse Weather
Information was available with The Chenab Times indicating that several important road stretches within Lahaul-Spiti have been rendered impassable due to persistent snowfall and adverse weather. The Darcha-Sarchu section of the Manali-Leh highway, the Darcha-Shinkula road, and the Gramphu-Batal stretch on the Sumdo-Kaza-Gramphu highway are among those closed, according to the district administration’s status report.
The inclement weather has created challenging conditions, with several tourist vehicles reportedly becoming stranded in snow near Ropang Nallah. The combination of heavy snowfall and slippery road surfaces has made further movement extremely difficult for vehicles and travellers.
Despite the severe cold, continuous snowfall, and the inherent difficulties posed by the weather, police personnel have been actively present at the affected sites, providing assistance to the stranded tourists. The rescue operations are currently underway, with authorities emphasizing their commitment to ensuring the safety of both residents and visitors in the region.
Rescue Efforts and Travel Advisories Issued
For those requiring assistance, the police have disseminated emergency contact numbers. Individuals can reach out to the general emergency helpline 112 or directly contact the District Police Control Room in Keylong at 89880-92298 for support.
The district administration’s report detailed the status of other key routes. The road from Rohtang Pass to the North Portal of the Atal Tunnel remained open for traffic between 6 a.m. and 5 p.m. Similarly, the stretch from the North Portal of the Atal Tunnel to Darcha was also reported to be open. However, the Darcha-Sarchu and Darcha-Shinkula roads continue to be closed due to the ongoing snowfall.
On National Highway 505, which connects Sumdo to Kaza and Gramphu, the Gramphu-Batal section is closed. The Sumdo-Batal road, however, was reported to be open. Further connectivity is maintained on the Sansari-Killar-Tindi-Tandi road, with the Tandi-Kadhu Nallah stretch accessible to traffic.
The weather across the district remains unpredictable. Reports indicate continued rain and snowfall in the Lahaul valley, rain in Udaipur, and generally cloudy skies in Spiti. This unsettled weather pattern necessitates constant vigilance from authorities and travellers alike.
Authorities have strongly advised tourists and commuters to exercise extreme caution when planning travel. They are urged to verify current road conditions before embarking on journeys and to strictly avoid using routes that have been officially declared closed until further notice. The police and district administration are continuing to monitor the evolving situation closely and are actively providing assistance to all individuals affected by these adverse weather conditions.
The Chenab Times News Desk