Two-way traffic starts on Manali-Leh National Highway from June 1

Lahaul and Spiti Deputy Commissioner Rahul Kumar today said the Manali-Leh highway would be restored for two-way traffic for the general public via Baralacha Pass from June 1 and all kinds of vehicles would be allowed to ply on this route.

“This highway, at present, is open only for one-way traffic for essential services. The district administration Lahaul and Spiti has allowed traffic movement on this highway only for the locals of Lahaul and Spiti and Ladakh between 7 am and 10 am beyond Darcha towards Leh or Lahaul beyond Sarchu on alternate days in case of emergency and essential services. The travelling is allowed only in 4×4 vehicles or vehicles with anti-skid chains,” he said.

The DC stated that “from May 22 onwards, this highway will be opened to the general public on odd and even days till May 31 between 7 am to 10 pm. The travelling will be allowed only in 4×4 vehicles and vehicles with anti-skid chains depending on weather conditions in the region. On the odd days, the movement of vehicles would be allowed towards Lahaul and Manali from the Leh

side via Baralacha pass, while on even days, the movement of vehicles would be allowed towards Leh from the Manali-Lahaul side via Baralacha Pass.”

The DC also issued instructions to Lahaul and Spiti SP Mayank Chaudhary to ensure the setting up of a police check post at Sarchu to coordinate with the force of the Leh administration to ensure smooth movement of traffic.