Leh, May 12, 2025: The snow clearance of the strategically important Manali–Sarchu road (NH-03) is undertaken by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) through the 70 Road Construction Company (RCC) of the 38 Border Roads Task Force (BRTF) under Project Deepak.

While the route remains accessible up to Darcha (Km 144.92) throughout the year, the stretch beyond remains closed during the winter months owing to heavy snowfall and challenging terrain.

The route passes through Baralacha La, one of the highest motorable passes in the Zanskar Range, located at an altitude of 16,043 feet. This region is known for its persistent vulnerability to avalanches, landslides, and accumulation of deep snow.

During the current season, snow walls were recorded at heights of up to 50 feet. A total of 26 avalanche-prone sites were cleared by BRO teams to facilitate safe movement along the route.

Snow clearance operations on the Darcha–Sarchu stretch commenced on 21 March 2025 and were completed by 10 May 2025 to ensure smooth vehicular movement. Notably, a breakthrough enabling emergency traffic was achieved by 5 May 2025, underscoring the operational efficiency and commitment of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO).

A significant milestone this season was the successful clearance of the newly realigned section of Baralacha La (Km 185 to Km 195), which was cleared for the first time following its completion in November 2024—marking a key advancement in high-altitude road maintenance.

Despite a delayed and extended snowfall season lasting into mid-March, 70 RCC successfully completed the snow clearance operations within 46 days. This was made possible by augmenting resources and extending working hours, resulting in a reduction of approximately 10 days compared to the average clearance duration. The timely opening of this strategic axis on National Highway NH-03 was instrumental in facilitating the movement of military vehicles to the Ladakh region during the critical operational scenario under Op Sindoor.

While snow clearance of the Rohtang Pass is concurrently being undertaken by 70 RCC, the presence of the Atal Tunnel ensures all-weather connectivity across the Rohtang axis. In contrast, there exists no alternative alignment to Baralacha La, rendering its timely reopening essential for maintaining uninterrupted summer connectivity to the Ladakh region.

The operation was led by Capt MS Krishnan of 70 RCC / 38 BRTF, under the close supervision of Major Tejas More, Officer Commanding, 70 RCC. Their effective leadership and coordination were pivotal to the successful execution of the task. The route is presently open for the movement of defence forces and other essential service agencies on a priority basis. Clearance for tourist and civilian traffic is expected to be granted shortly by the District Disaster Management Authorities (DDMA), initially with regulated up and down movement on an alternate-day basis.

The timely reopening of Baralacha La and the Manali–Leh Highway at this crucial juncture significantly reinforces the logistical supply chain to the Ladakh region. It stands as a testament to the Border Roads Organisation’s enduring commitment to nation-building under the dynamic leadership of Lt Gen Raghu Srinivasan, PVSM, VSM, Director General Border Roads.