Shimla, Apr 24
The strategic lifeline of the Manali-Leh National Highway-3, shut down since November due to heavy snowfall, has been partially revived by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO). As per reports, a single lane has been cleared for traffic, a significant step towards restoring crucial connectivity to the region.
Confirming the development, Mayank Chaudhary, the Police Chief of Tribal Lahaul Spiti district, spoke to media personnel stationed at the site yesterday. He disclosed that key sections of the highway, including those managed by 111-RCC, 70-RCC, Project Deepak, and Project Himanak, have been diligently cleared of snow, allowing for the reopening of a single lane.
“Although one lane is now accessible, it’s imperative to ensure complete safety before permitting any traffic,” stated SP Chaudhary, emphasizing the need for caution, especially given the forecast of inclement weather in the coming days.
The successful passage of an Administration and Indian Army convoy on the double lane is pivotal before fully opening the highway for routine traffic, he emphasized. “A trial run involving Army convoys and administrative vehicles is essential to gauge the readiness of the route,” he added, underlining the significance of thorough testing for the safety of both locals and tourists.
The Manali-Leh National Highway holds strategic importance, facilitating the movement of armed forces and essential supplies to the frontier areas of Ladakh, which share borders with China and Pakistan. With approximately 150 km of snowline to clear annually, the highway is crucial for maintaining territorial communication in the Himalayan region.
Efforts to enhance connectivity along the route have been ongoing, with alternate axes and tunnel proposals aimed at reducing travel distances and improving accessibility. Despite facing extreme weather conditions, including temperatures plunging to minus 25 to 30 degrees Celsius, BRO units have tirelessly worked to clear snowdrifts towering up to 10 to 15 feet along the high-altitude stretches of the highway.
The completion of snow clearance operations typically spans from mid-March to late May or early June. However, this year’s efforts faced additional challenges due to concurrent elections, leading to accelerated clearance operations.
Key passes along the highway, including Baralacha La, Nakee La, Lachulung La, and Tanglang La, have been focal points for clearance efforts, ensuring vital links are restored promptly. Furthermore, ongoing infrastructure developments, such as proposed tunnels to overcome challenging passes like Shrinkula, underscore the commitment to improving connectivity in the region.
As the single lane reopens, optimism resonates among locals and travelers alike, heralding a significant step towards restoring vital connectivity along this strategic artery. However, the cautious approach adopted by authorities highlights the importance of prioritizing safety in the face of challenging conditions, ensuring that the highway remains a reliable lifeline for the region.
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