Atal Tunnel Closed Due to Heavy Snowfall in Himachal Pradesh

Manali, March 30, 2024: Himachal Pradesh’s weather has taken a turn for the worse, disrupting travel and tourism in the region. After a two-week reprieve, snowfall began again on Saturday morning, impacting popular tourist destinations like Manali, Solangnala, and Lahaul Valley.

The Atal Tunnel, a major route connecting Manali and Lahaul, has been closed due to more than half a foot of snowfall at both ends. Authorities have also halted vehicles from proceeding beyond Solangnala, allowing tourists only as far as Nehru Kund if weather conditions persist.

This late-season snowfall comes as a disappointment after December and January saw minimal snowfall. While beneficial for replenishing water reserves, the delayed snowfall has impacted crop sowing in Lahaul Valley.

The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is responsible for maintaining the region’s mountain passes. While they’ve successfully connected both ends of the Shinkula Pass, snowfall is hindering vehicle movement between Manali and Janskar. Similarly, heavy snowfall along the Manali-Sarchu-Leh route has slowed down road restoration efforts.