Presidential Visit to Manali Triggers Tightened Controls on Atal Tunnel Corridor

Kullu. Between 6 October and 8 October, President Droupadi Murmu will be travelling in Manali, prompting a comprehensive traffic‑management and security operation that reshapes vehicle flow around the Atal Tunnel and neighbouring attractions.

Restrictions on Heavy Vehicles

The advisory prohibits heavy trucks from entering the Atal Tunnel stretch from 20:00 on 6 October until 12:00 on 7 October. On 7 October, movement along the Palchan‑Atal‑Rohtang corridor will also be tightly regulated. Emergency services and vehicles assigned to security or VIP duties are exempt.

Additional bans apply to heavy traffic destined for the Hadimba Temple and Old Manali via Rambagh throughout the three‑day window.

Key Checkpoints and Surveillance Zones

Security teams will man checkpoints and set up barricades at critical nodes, including Log Hut Chowk, Ram Bagh, Manalsu, Nehru Kund, Palchan and other points on the President’s itinerary. On 7 October, traffic approaching Manali from the Lahaul‑Spiti side will be diverted according to the evolving security picture.

Normal flow will resume once the convoy clears each segment, with a similar protocol for the return leg.

Security Deployment Across Manali

Manali is divided into nine security sectors, staffed by roughly 600 police personnel. The President is scheduled to tour the Atal Tunnel and the Mata Hadimba Temple, prompting extra traffic controls around the temple precincts.

During the temple visit on 7 October, movement around Ram Bagh Chowk, Ghatotkach Chowk, Manalsu and Log Hut Chowk will be regulated.

Impact on Visitors and Adventure Activities

Travelers heading to the Atal Tunnel and surrounding hill stations should expect delays and follow the prescribed detours. While most locations in Kullu and Lahaul‑Spiti remain accessible, the tourism department has ordered a temporary suspension of adventure services—including paragliding and similar activities—from 6 October through 8 October.

Residents, tourists, taxi operators and other road users are urged to cooperate with police and adhere to the designated routes.

Return to Normal Traffic

Restrictions are strictly linked to the convoy’s progress. Vehicles may be briefly halted at checkpoints, but traffic will be cleared once the President’s motorcade has passed. The three‑day plan balances public mobility with the heightened security demands of a presidential visit.