Presidential Visit to Manali Triggers Heavy‑Vehicle Bans and Tightened Security on Atal Tunnel Route

Kullu. Between October 6 and October 8, President Droupadi Murmu will travel to Manali, prompting a comprehensive traffic‑management and security operation that reshapes vehicle movement around the Atal Tunnel and nearby attractions.

Ban on Heavy Vehicles

An official notice prohibits heavy trucks from entering the Atal Tunnel corridor from 8 p.m. on October 6 until noon on October 7. On October 7, the Palchan‑Atal Tunnel‑Rohtang stretch will also be placed under strict control. Vehicles engaged in emergency response, security duties or VIP escort are exempt.

Further restrictions apply to heavy traffic bound for the Hadimba Temple and Old Manali via Rambagh throughout the three‑day window.

Key Checkpoints and Monitoring Zones

Security teams will man checkpoints and install barricades at critical junctions such as Log Hut Chowk, Ram Bagh, Manalsu, Nehru Kund, Palchan and other locations on the President’s itinerary. On October 7, vehicles approaching Manali from the Lahaul‑Spiti side will be diverted according to the evolving security scenario.

Normal traffic flow will resume once the convoy clears each segment, with a mirrored procedure for the return leg.

Manali’s Security Deployment

The town is divided into nine security sectors, staffed by roughly 600 police personnel. The President’s schedule includes visits to the Atal Tunnel and the Mata Hadimba Temple, necessitating additional traffic controls around the temple precincts.

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

Effect on Tourists and Adventure Sports

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

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

Return to Normal Traffic

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