Heavy Snow Strands 1,000 Vehicles Near Atal Tunnel Rohtang

March 16, 2026

In a major traffic disruption on Sunday evening, around 1,000 vehicles were left stranded near the south portal of the Atal Tunnel in Rohtang, Himachal Pradesh, as fresh snowfall in the higher reaches of Manali caused road blockages and significantly reduced visibility. Authorities reported that the sudden weather deterioration brought normal traffic movement to a halt on the busy National Highway route, which links Manali to other parts of the state via the strategically important tunnel.

Snowfall Triggers Chaos on Approach Roads

The spell of light to moderate snowfall in the higher elevations around Kullu and Manali led to slippery road conditions and visibility challenges for motorists. Dark clouds covering the sky further compounded the situation, prompting vehicles to grind to a standstill as drivers struggled to navigate through the treacherous patch near the tunnel entrance. The National Highway linking Manali and the Atal Tunnel is a key route for tourists as well as commercial traffic; snowfall has a history of disrupting travel in the region during the late winter and early spring months.

Police and Rescue Teams Mobilised

Responding swiftly to the unfolding crisis, Manali police teams reached the stranded vehicles and began coordinated rescue operations. Officers guided stranded travellers back towards Manali and called in support from the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) and other rescue agencies to help improve road conditions. One of the interim measures recommended was spraying mud on icy stretches to minimise vehicle skidding. Authorities appealed to travellers to remain patient as efforts to clear the road and ensure their safety were ongoing.

Officials are closely monitoring weather reports and road conditions, keeping in coordination with the Meteorological Department to anticipate further snow or rain. The sudden weather onslaught comes amid broader weather activity across Himachal Pradesh, where rainfall and snowfall in various districts have resulted in lower-than-normal temperatures and further travel complications.

Travel Advice and Precautions

While heavy snowfall can be a spectacle for tourists, it also presents significant hazards. Motorists travelling to hill stations like Manali are advised to check real-time road and weather updates from Himachal Pradesh Police and BRO before embarking on their journey — especially during winter and transitional seasons when snow can quickly accumulate, making roads slick and dangerous.

Common precautions include:

• Equipping vehicles with snow chains or winter tyres.

• Carrying warm clothing and emergency supplies.

• Avoiding travel during active snowfall or when alerts are in place.

• Heeding instructions from police and rescue agencies on the ground.

Authorities typically restrict access beyond certain points depending on snow conditions, and only four-wheel drive vehicles may be allowed when snow levels rise.

Impact on Tourism and Local Movement

Manali and its surrounding valleys are major tourist draws, especially in winter when snowfall transforms the landscape into a white wonderland. However, this charm can quickly turn into a logistical challenge, as thousands of holidaymakers travelling to enjoy snow-laden scenery also contribute to congestion and increased risk on mountain roads. The recent disruption has not only affected tourist vehicles but also locals relying on these routes for daily travel and supply movement.

As rescue teams work to clear the roadway and conditions improve, traffic will be allowed to move again. For now, authorities have reiterated safety measures and cautioned motorists against venturing into high-altitude areas without prior clearance or appropriate preparations.