Leh, Apr 21: The Border Roads Organisation’s Project Himank has cleared snow up to Lachulung La on the Leh-Manali highway, advancing efforts to restore connectivity along National Highway-03, a vital route linking Ladakh with the rest of the country.
According to an official press release, the snow clearance operation, led by 111 Road Construction Company under the 753 Border Roads Task Force, has successfully opened the stretch up to Lachulung La, situated at an altitude of 16,616 feet. The development follows recent progress made at Tanglang La, as teams continue to push forward in challenging terrain.
Officials stated that the road up to Lachulung La has been cleared and maintained to a double-lane configuration, facilitating safer and smoother movement for both military and civilian traffic once the highway is formally opened.
The operation has been carried out under demanding high-altitude conditions marked by sub-zero temperatures, strong winds, heavy snow accumulation, and avalanche-prone stretches. Despite these constraints, the teams have continued clearance work along the highway, which remains a critical lifeline for Ladakh.
With Lachulung La now accessible, the focus of the snow clearance teams has shifted towards Nakee La Pass and the Gata Loops section, comprising a series of 22 hairpin bends. These stretches are among the remaining portions to be cleared before full restoration of connectivity on the highway.
Officials indicated that work is progressing steadily, with personnel and machinery deployed across multiple segments to maintain momentum and complete the remaining tasks.
The clearance of high mountain passes along NH-03 is undertaken annually to reopen the Leh-Manali axis after winter closure, enabling movement of essential supplies, civilian traffic, and strategic logistics to the region.
Authorities have reiterated that further progress will depend on prevailing weather conditions and terrain stability, as teams continue operations in one of the most challenging road networks in the Himalayas.
NH-03 Snow clearance advances as Lachulung La Pass reopened by Project Himank
