Srinagar, Aug. 31 -- The authorities on Monday closed Srinagar-Leh Highway for civilian traffic to allow army convoys to ply on the strategic road following escalation in tension between India and Chinese troops in Eastern Ladakh.

The civilian vehicles on way to Ladakh were stopped at Manigam and Sumbal-Sonawari area early Monday morning, a local news agency KNT reported. Quoting an official, the report said that no vehicle was being allowed to move ahead of Sonamarg.

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

Eyewitnesses said that only armoured vehicles were seen plying on Srinagar-Leh highway.

However, a top police said the highway was closed for weather reasons.

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