Leh, Mar 24:The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has initiated snow clearance operations on National Highway-03, the crucial Leh–Sarchu–Manali route, to restore road connectivity between Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh following months of winter closure.
The operation, undertaken by Project HIMANK, marks the start of a demanding effort to reopen the 251.5-kilometre stretch that remains cut off for nearly four to five months each year due to heavy snowfall and extreme weather conditions.
Traversing some of the highest motorable terrain in the world, the highway passes through three major mountain passes—Tanglang La at 17,482 feet, Lachulung La at 16,616 feet, and Nakee La at 15,547 feet. These areas witness heavy snow accumulation, frequent avalanches and treacherous conditions, posing persistent challenges to road clearance teams.
The route serves as a vital link for civilian populations and plays a critical role in maintaining supply lines to forward areas. Its reopening will reconnect nine villages and several border camps, including Sarchu, benefitting an estimated population of 5,000 to 6,000 people who remain cut off during the winter season.
The snow clearance drive is being carried out by 111 Road Construction Company under 753 Border Roads Task Force. Equipped with specialised snow-cutting machinery and supported by trained operators and engineers, teams have been deployed to undertake round-the-clock operations in difficult terrain.
Providing an update on the ongoing effort, Lt Col Sunny Singhal, Officer Commanding, 111 RCC under Project Himank and 753 BRTF, said, “Fresh snowfall has triggered avalanches and snow slides at multiple locations. Restoring the highway involves working in extreme weather and high-altitude conditions, but our teams remain committed to reopening this crucial route at the earliest. Every effort is being made to ensure safe and efficient snow clearance while maintaining operational readiness.”
Officials indicated that the reopening of this axis is essential not only for easing civilian movement but also for sustaining logistics for armed forces stationed in remote sectors of Ladakh.
The annual restoration of the Leh–Manali highway remains a closely monitored operation, as it reduces reliance on air connectivity during winter months and strengthens ground access ahead of the summer season.
With the commencement of snow clearance, authorities have set in motion a coordinated effort to restore mobility, maintain supply chains and ensure operational preparedness across one of the country’s most challenging high-altitude corridors.
