Leribe, July 08 — Mafika Lisiu Pass has been reopened to traffic after being closed for nearly three days due to heavy snowfall that blocked the route.
The Leribe District Disaster Manager, Ms. Khopotso Rakolobe, told the Agency on Monday that the road was cleared and reopened on Saturday.
She said the pass had been closed as a precautionary measure to prevent motorists and travellers from becoming trapped in the snow.
Ms. Rakolobe indicated that vehicles are now moving freely along the route following the successful clearance of the snow.
She noted that Mafika Lisiu Pass is an important road, particularly for employees working on the Polihali Project and staff of the Lesotho Highlands Development Authority (LHDA).
She also highlighted that the route serves as a gateway to several tourist attractions in the highlands, including Katse Dam, which attracts many visitors throughout the year.
Meanwhile, Senior Projects Supervisor in the Department of Roads, Mr. Katleho Mafa, confirmed that the pass has been open since Saturday and that no vehicles or people were reported trapped during the snowfall.
Mr. Mafa said road-clearing operations were carried out successfully without any major challenges and that road users have already resumed using the route.
Mafika Lisiu Pass provides access to mountainous areas of Leribe, including Katse, Ha Lejone and Malibamatso.
However, authorities have warned motorists to exercise caution, especially during the morning hours when roads may still be slippery due to icy conditions.
The pass is accessed through the Mokoallong Boomgate, which is controlled by the Lesotho Mounted Police Service (LMPS).
Ends/KC/ml
