Spiti: Fresh snowfall in Himachal Pradesh’s higher reaches has disrupted road connectivity in parts of Lahaul and Spiti, prompting police to suspend traffic on several mountain routes and advise people against unnecessary travel.
Snowfall has continued since Thursday night across high-altitude areas, including Shinkula Pass, Baralacha Pass and Kunzum Top. Several stretches have become slippery, with reports of around 10 to 15 cm of snow accumulation in some locations.
Which Roads Are Closed In Lahaul-Spiti?
According to the police advisory, vehicles heading towards Shinkula Top and Baralacha Top are being stopped at the Darcha police post. Traffic movement from Darcha towards Sarchu and further towards Leh has consequently been affected.
Vehicles travelling towards Kunzum Top are being stopped at the Losar check post. The route from Gramphoo towards Chhatru and Kunzum Top has also been closed.
Movement has further been affected on the following stretches:
- Rohtang to Koksar
- Gramphoo to Batal
- Losar to Batal
- Rohli to Kadhu Nala
Fresh snowfall was also reported at Rohtang Pass and Marhi on Friday morning. Rohtang received around four to five inches of snow, while Marhi recorded approximately one inch.
Manali Police Suspend Traffic Towards Rohtang
Citing safety concerns, Manali Police have suspended vehicular movement from Marhi towards Rohtang Pass. Authorities have also tightened restrictions at the Gulaba barrier, with vehicles that reach Marhi being sent back to Manali.
Lahaul-Spiti Police have urged tourists and residents to avoid unnecessary journeys into high-altitude areas amid the adverse weather conditions.
In emergencies, only 4×4 vehicles equipped with appropriate snow chains may be permitted after authorities assess road and weather conditions. People travelling for essential reasons have been advised to seek administrative permission, carry adequate warm clothing and follow police instructions.
IMD Issues Yellow Alert For November 13 And 14
The Meteorological Centre in Shimla has issued a yellow alert for thunderstorms and lightning at isolated places in Himachal Pradesh on November 13 and 14.
Unsettled weather is expected to continue until November 15, according to the forecast cited in the report.
The latest snowfall has brought a further drop in temperatures across the state’s higher reaches. Authorities have urged people to avoid risky journeys until weather and road conditions improve.