Shimla: Snow clearance team of project Himank on Tuesday reopened the National Highway-3 up to Sarchu, restoring strategic and civilian connectivity between Ladakh and the rest of the country, officials said.
The team led by 111 Road Construction Company under the 753 Border Roads Task Force (BRTF), has successfully completed the snow clearance operations on the Leh-Manali highway, a statement issued here said.
The operation, which commenced on March 16 under extremely challenging high altitude conditions, culminated with the opening of the NH for traffic movement after sustained and relentless efforts by Project Himank.
The operation involved snow clearance and widening of the National Highway to double-lane standards across some of the most difficult stretches of the axis, including the high-altitude passes of Tanglang La (17,482 feet), Lachung La (16,616 feet) and Nakee La (15,457 feet), along with the treacherous Gata Loops that has 22 hairpin bends.
The teams encountered massive snow accumulations, sub-zero temperatures, avalanche prone zones, blizzards and snow slides during the operation, the statement said.
Heavy snow cutting machinery was deployed in a synchronised manner while adhering to strict avalanche safety protocols and high-altitude operational drills.
The widening of the road to double lane configuration will significantly improve traffic movement, logistical sustainment and safety for both civilian commuters and defence convoys moving along this vital strategic route.
