Srinagar, August 31: Government has closed Srinagar-Leh Highway for civilian traffic after fresh clashes were reported between Chinese and Indian troops on the intervening night of August 29-30 in Ladakh.

Sources said that civilian vehicles on way to Ladakh have been stopped at Manigam and Sumbal-Sonawari area. An official said that no vehicle is being allowed to ahead of Sonmarg.

The Srinagar-Leh Highway, however, will remain open for the movement of army convoys, the official added.

Eyewitnesses said that only armoured vehicles can be seen plying on Srinagar-Leh highway. The road according to official will remain open only for the defence forces and armoured vehicles.

Meanwhile, the Indian Army issued a statement on Monday stating that the Chinese troops attempted to unilaterally change the status quo on the southern bank of the Pangong Tso Lake area in eastern Ladakh. (KNT)