The Manali-Leh National Highway was opened by the Border Roads Organization (BRO) on Monday.
The highway had remained closed for nearly six months during the winter months as heavy snow blocked the Highway.
A BRO official said , “ The Leh-Manali road has been thrown open after a golden handshake ceremony held at Sarchu; although road is connected now, there are many stretches with deep snow where road is still narrow where only one directional traffic can be allowed with some struggles for some days”, he added .
He said, “They have made it clear, the opening of road doesn’t mean that it’s open for all vehicles immediately as traffic is managed by civil administration is not by BRO and tourists please note this highway is still closed for general movement and will be opened only after police and civil administration allows traffic on the road depending on the weather conditions.”
The highway’s reopening is expected to provide substantial relief to the stranded travelers, particularly those stuck in Kashmir due to flight disruptions. With Baralacha Pass now accessible, travel time between Leh and Manali will be reduced, offering an easier route for commuters.
The opening of the highway also brings good news for adventure tourists as bikers and travelers wait eagerly for a new experience on the road having vast natural beauty.
The BRO official said, “The restoration efforts were led by Captain Manish Ranjan of the 111 Road Construction Company (RCC) under the BRO’s supervision and it was restored braving extreme cold and hostile weather by the teams.”
