Shimla,May 31,
The vehicular traffic that was briefly opened on the Keylong-Koksar-Kaza route has been temporarily halted following fresh snowfall. The highway, which includes the crucial stretch over Kunzum Pass, was accessible for a short period before adverse weather conditions necessitated its closure.
On Wednesday, the National Highway (NH) 505 was reopened for traffic between Keylong, Koksar, and Kaza, providing much-needed connectivity for locals and tourists. However, a severe weather shift led to substantial snowfall in the Koksar region overnight. This prompted the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) and the Himachal Pradesh Police to close the route until further notice to ensure public safety.
The DDMA has issued specific guidelines for the NH 505 (Kaza-Gramphu Road) dated May 29, 2024. The Lossar to Gramphu section is open only for 4×4 vehicles from both directions, and traffic movement is allowed from 07:00 AM to 02:00 PM only. The route from Gramphu to Lossar is prone to rock falls and avalanches, so extreme caution is advised. Vehicles must be checked for fuel sufficiency, machinery, and tire conditions before travel. Unnecessary stoppages along the Gramphu to Lossar route should be avoided, and travelers will proceed at their own risk, complying with all safety requirements.
The Himachal Pradesh Police issued a subsequent advisory on May 30, 2024, due to the fresh snowfall. All traffic on the Koksar-Kaza road is halted until further notice. Commuters are urged to avoid this route until weather conditions improve and the road is deemed safe. Travelers should stay informed via DDMA and official social media channels for updates.
The authorities emphasize that public safety is their primary concern and appreciate the cooperation and understanding of all travelers during this period. For emergencies, contact the District Emergency Operation Center, Lahaul & Spiti at +91 94594-61355, 01900-202509/510/517, or Toll-Free No. 1077. Stay safe and heed the advisories for a secure journey.
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