Manali— Authorities have closed the Manali–Leh highway for all traffic starting Monday after dangerous black ice formations made vehicular movement unsafe. Officials confirmed that vehicles are now permitted only up to Darcha, with complete restrictions imposed beyond that point.
The administration said the decision was taken as a precautionary measure to prevent accidents on the high-altitude route, which becomes extremely treacherous during winter. Black ice — a transparent, hard-to-detect layer of ice — has made the road surface slippery, leaving even experienced drivers at risk.
Officials added that the closure will remain in place until conditions improve and the stretch is deemed safe for travel. With winter intensifying across the region, authorities have urged travellers to avoid unnecessary movement towards the higher reaches.
