Understanding the Closure of the Manali-Leh Highway: Passes and Impact on Traffic

Understanding the Closure of the Manali-Leh Highway: Passes and Impact on Traffic

The Manali-Leh highway, a crucialtransport route connecting two iconic places in India, is no stranger to closures, especially during the winter season. In recent news, the highway saw an early closure for normal traffic due to heavy snowfall, primarily affecting the Baralacha and Kunzum passes. This article delves into the details of these high passes, the reasons behind their closures, and the impact on local and tourist traffic.

Important Overview of the Manali-Leh Highway

The Manali-Leh highway stretches over 470 kilometers, connecting the picturesque town of Manali, situated in the scenic district of Kullu, and the high-altitude cold desert of Leh in Ladakh. The highway is renowned for its breathtaking vistas, includingthe Baralacha La and Kunzum La high passes, which significantly contribute to its trekking and adventure tourism appeal.

High Passes and Their Significance

The Manali-Leh highway is known for its three highest passes, all of which are pivotal in the region's transportation and tourism infrastructure. Let us explore each pass in detail:

Baralacha La Pass

Baralacha La is situated at an elevation of 4,968 meters (16,296 feet). Located in the Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh, it is one of the main reasons for the highway's closure. The pass faces challenges with heavy snowfall around early October and stays shut until April or early May. Due to this, the highway temporarily closes for normal traffic.

Kunzum La Pass

Another high pass, Kunzum La is also in the Lahaul and Spiti region, situated at 4,321 meters (14,176 feet) above sea level. This pass is a significant bottleneck for traffic movement and has been responsible for the closure of the Gramphu-Kaza highway due to snowfall.

Traffic Impact and Management

The closure of the Manali-Leh highway is marked by the complete stoppage of normal traffic, significantly impacting daily life and tourism activities. In recent times, the specific closure was announced by the Lahaul-Spiti SP, Manav Verma, on Sunday due to the fresh snowfall at Baralacha La. Similarly, the Gramphu-Kaza highway was blocked due to snow at Kunzum La, further compounding the situation.

Local authorities and traffic management teams work diligently to ensure the safety of travelers by monitoring the weather and traffic conditions. While the closure causes inconvenience, it allows for crucial maintenance and repair work on the road, ensuring safety for reopening.

Conclusion

The Manali-Leh highway, while a backbone of the region's transportation and tourism, also requires careful management and precautions during the winter season. With numerous high passes, the highway experiences significant closures due to snowfall, which can have a substantial impact on local and tourist traffic. It is a testament to the environmental challenges faced by such remote regions and underscores the importance of sustainable travel practices.

As travelers and tourists plan their adventures in the Manali and Leh regions, it is crucial to stay updated with weather and travel advisories during the winter season. This ensures a safer and more enjoyable experience, minimizing disruptions and maximizing the enjoyment of the stunning natural beauty this area has to offer.