With the recent snowfall in the higher reaches leading to accumulation of snow and ice on the roads, of the Lahaul and Spiti district administration has stalled vehicular movement between Rohtang top and Koksar in Lahaul and Spiti district.
The snowfall on 16, 17 and 18 November has left more than 150 vehicles stranded on the Manali-Leh highway, the district administration, police department had to conduct rescue operation along with Border Road Organisation officials.
The Lahaul and Spiti, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Deva Singh Negi issued orders to stall traffic between Rohtang and Kaksar on the Manali-Leh Highway on Saturday.
The accumulation of snow and ice on the road has rendered it dangerous for driving and there is apprehension of accidents due to slippery conditions prevailing on these roads.
DC Deva Singh Negi said that in exercise of the powers vested with him under Section 144 CrPC, 115 Mortar Vehicle Act 1988 and keeping in view of safety and security of general public, vehicular traffic has been prohibited on the stretch of the road falling between Kaksar and Rohtang top on the Manali-Leh Highway.
However, vehicles connected with the supply of essential commodities and emergency vehicles with prior permission of the district administration will be allowed, he added.
The Border Road Organisation has officially closed the Manali-Leh road with effect from 15 November, he maintained, adding that in wake of the interest of the safety and security of human health and life, orders have been issued to immediately stop vehicular traffic between Rohtang and Koksar.