Manali (Himachal Pradesh), Nov 16 (IANS) A rescue post has been set up temporarily at the base of Rohtang Pass in Himachal Pradesh's Kullu district to provide help to the stranded motorists in case of heavy snowfall, an official said Monday.

Mahavir Thakur, the deputy director of Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Mountaineering and Allied Sports, said: 'A temporary rescue post has been set up at the base of Rohtang Pass to provide timely assistance to the stranded motorists in case of heavy snowfall in the area. The post will be operational till the pass is motorable.'

The Rohtang Pass has been closed to traffic for the past seven days after heavy snowfall. Snow-clearing operation is on but frequent changes in weather is hampering the work.

The rescue post, established at Marhi, 35 km from here, would also assist the motorists and trekkers in crossing the Rohtang Pass, he said.

'In case of sudden change in weather conditions, it would guide the district administration to close the pass as a precautionary measure,' he added.

According to Thakur, the second post would be set up on the other side of the Rohtang Pass (at 13,050 feet altitude) at Khoksar in Lahaul and Spiti district.

Located 52 km from here, the Rohtang Pass connects Manali with Leh in Jammu and Kashmir.

The weather at the Rohtang Pass is harsh. A sudden drop in temperatures even in summer triggers wintry conditions.

Every year lakhs of tourists visit the Rohtang Pass to enjoy its scenic beauty.