Himachal Pradesh News : Traffic restored on 65 roads in Lahaul-Spiti after heavy snowfall; several key routes still blocked

Only 65 of 290 roads have been reopened in Lahaul and Spiti after heavy snowfall disrupted connectivity. Restoration work continues amid adverse weather conditions.

Keylong: Lahaul and Spiti district continues to face major transportation challenges after heavy snowfall on January 23 and 24 severely disrupted road connectivity across the tribal region.

According to official sources, traffic has been restored on only 65 out of the total 290 roads in the district so far, while the remaining routes remain blocked due to heavy snow accumulation.

The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has managed to restore traffic on the vital Manali–Leh National Highway between Manali and Keylong, re-establishing the district’s connectivity with the rest of Himachal Pradesh.

Another crucial road linking the remote Pangi region of Chamba district with the Lahaul Valley has also been reopened via Kadu Nala on the Sansari–Killar–Thirot–Tandi road, improving access to the Pangi Valley.

Several key roads still blocked

However, several important routes continue to remain closed. The Darcha–Sarchu and Darcha–Shinkula roads are still blocked due to heavy snow, hampering movement towards higher-altitude areas.

The Public Works Department (PWD) is facing difficulties in reopening several village link roads connecting remote habitations to the district headquarters at Keylong, affecting daily transportation and the supply of essential commodities.

Officials said the Sumdo–Losar road has been partially restored and is currently open only for 4×4 vehicles.

Weather adds to concerns

Meanwhile, cloudy weather conditions prevailed in the region on Monday, raising concerns over further delays in road restoration work.

PWD authorities said reopening all roads will take considerable time as snow accumulation has been unusually high this season. Restoration efforts are continuing on a war footing, with priority being given to main highways and vital link roads to restore normalcy in the region.

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