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Punjab Man Dies of High-Altitude Sickness on Manali-Leh Highway

Authorities warn travellers with respiratory issues against venturing beyond Darcha without emergency oxygen supplies

Lahaul-Spiti SP Ilma Afroz has urged tourists to carry oxygen cylinders, oxygen tablets, and first aid kits while travelling to the region.
The deceased was an ayurvedic doctor by profession. (HT Photo for representation)

Overview

  • Varinderjit Singh, a 54-year-old resident of Patiala’s Aman Bagh Colony, fell ill on June 1 while returning from Leh and died of hypoxemia at Darcha.
  • Superintendent of Police Ilma Afroz said Lahaul-Spiti’s high altitude and low oxygen levels heighten risks for visitors with pre-existing respiratory conditions.
  • Officials recommend that people with breathing problems avoid travel past Darcha, Gramphu and Losar on the Manali-Leh National Highway.
  • Tourists are urged to carry oxygen cylinders, oxygen tablets and first aid kits and to maintain adequate hydration at high altitudes.
  • The lack of mobile network coverage beyond key points in Lahaul-Spiti complicates emergency response and delays medical assistance.