Delhi tourist killed in road accident in Lahaul-Spiti; advisory issued amid recent snowfall

PTC Web Desk:  A tourist from Delhi was killed when their vehicle skidded on icy roads and collided with a tipper in Lahaul-Spiti district, Himachal Pradesh, late last evening. Three others sustained injuries in the accident. The police have registered a case and started an investigation into the matter.

According to the police, the accident took place between Snow Gallery and  Pagal Nala, beyond the Rohtang Tunnel. There was a huge traffic jam due to slippery conditions on the road when the vehicle with registration number of Delhi attempted to overtake other cars at high speed. The driver lost control and crashed into a stationary tipper truck in the opposite lane. The front of the vehicle was crushed under the truck, and all airbags were deployed. 

The deceased was identified as Bhishan Garg (49), a businessman from Delhi. The injured passengers, Parvez Alam, Lekhraj, and Tarun, were traveling with him. The fifth person seated at the back of the vehicle escaped without injury. The group was returning from a trip to Sissu when the accident occurred.

Police advisory amid recent snowfall 

Following the recent snowfall, the police have issued a safety advisory for both tourists and locals. The police have warned that the roads have become slick, resembling a sheet of glass due to the ice. Drivers are advised to maintain slow speeds and minimise the use of brakes for safety. The advisory stresses the need for extra caution while driving in such conditions.

With more snowfall expected in the coming days, tourists have been urged to avoid travelling to high-altitude areas where sudden snowstorms can trap them. On Sunday evening, over 150 tourists were stranded in the higher regions of Lahaul-Spiti, but the local police successfully rescued them and ensured they were safely accommodated in nearby hotels.