Sichuan-Tibet Highway enters peak accident season

Recently, the frequent snowstorms along the Sichuan-Tibet Highway have caused safety problems such as heavy snow accumulation, landslides, and skidding.

The Transportation Department of Tibet reminds the public that all drivers and passengers entering Tibet in their own vehicles need to pay attention to the weather before the trip and take preventative measures to ensure safety.

The Sichuan-Tibet Highway is at an average altitude of over 3,000 meters, with many mountains enroute at more than 4,000 meters. During every Winter-to-Spring transition, there is always heavy snow and dark ice on the roads.

Since mid-February, the areas along Route 318 near Basu, Maizhokunggar, Gongbo'gyamda-Zogong, and Nyingchi-Bomê, and Route 317 along Dêngqên, Chamdo, and Jomda-Riwoqê, and Route 214 along Basu-Chamdo-Markham have all shown accumulated snow and ice, causing safety worries.

Chamdo is the first stop inside in Tibet, and the many city agencies in Chamdo have taken measures to help alleviate safety issues due to the severe weather. The road crews have increased their snow and ice removal efforts along the roads, the traffic police are working 24-7 to direct traffic and helping passing vehicles on the latest traffic and transportation issues.

The Transportation Department of Tibet issued a reminder: Tourists entering Tibet along the Sichuan-Tibet Highway should avoid traveling on snowy days, night-time travel, and need to pay attention to all safety signs. If there were any landslides, they need to pass quickly and do not linger in the area.