The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has started snow clearance operations along the Manali-Leh highway, a crucial route that connects Ladakh with the rest of India. The highway, which remains closed during winter due to heavy snowfall, is now being cleared to restore connectivity for civilians and Defence personnel.
BRO’s Efforts to Reopen the Highway
The snow clearance operation is being carried out by Project Himank, a BRO initiative responsible for road maintenance in southern Ladakh. Teams equipped with heavy machinery are working in extreme weather conditions to remove thick layers of snow.
According to BRO officials, the Manali-Leh highway serves as a strategic lifeline, especially for the armed forces deployed in the high-altitude areas of Ladakh. The 427-km-long National Highway-3 is one of the most critical transport routes after the Jammu-Srinagar-Leh highway, which also remains closed in winter.
Challenges in Snow Clearance
BRO teams, particularly the 753 Border Roads Task Force, are facing harsh conditions, with temperatures dropping below freezing. Snow drifts of 10 to 15 feet are blocking multiple stretches, making clearance operations extremely challenging.
Key areas affected include:
- Tanglang La (17,500 feet) – Experiences heavy snowfall and frequent avalanches.
- Baralacha La, Nakee La, Lachulung La – All above 15,000 feet and critical for transportation.
- Rohtang Pass – A popular tourist destination that remains inaccessible in winter. However, the Atal Tunnel ensures year-round access beyond Rohtang.
Restoring Connectivity for Civilians and Defence
The BRO is working tirelessly to restore normal traffic movement as soon as possible. The reopening of the Manali-Leh highway is essential for local residents, tourists, and defence logistics.
