Key Takeaways:

• The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) reopened on Monday morning after being closed for nearly a month.
• Restrictions remain in place, with traffic limited to one lane in each direction from Santa Monica to Ventura County.
• Safety concerns have led to proof-of-residence requirements for accessing the burn zone.
• The wildfires have caused catastrophic damage, claiming numerous lives and thousands of structures in Los Angeles.

The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) in Southern California reopened on Monday morning, nearly a month after being closed due to the catastrophic Palisades Fire that wreaked havoc in Los Angeles. Traffic along the renowned coastal route began moving again at 8 AM but is restricted to just one lane in each direction between Santa Monica and the Ventura County line. Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath emphasized that "essential traffic only is strongly encouraged" as cleanup and utility repairs are still ongoing, indicating that "this will not be the same PCH as before the fires," according to The Independent.

The highway partially reopened Sunday morning at its northernmost section in Malibu, while the access to the remaining area in Pacific Palisades faced delays due to heightened safety concerns, including potential looting. To secure the area, the responsibility for access management has shifted from the Los Angeles Police Department to the California Highway Patrol and the National Guard, a move aimed at easing pressure on the LAPD, which has struggled to respond effectively over the past month.

As conditions stabilize, the Palisades region continues to necessitate proof-of-residence or entry passes for access, highlighting safety measures still in effect as reported by AP News. The fires, sparked by heavy winds on January 7, resulted in the destruction of nearly 8,000 homes and other structures, causing at least 12 fatalities and forcing thousands to evacuate.

According to Newsweek, the significant losses were compounded by another fire in Altadena that led to 17 casualties and the destruction of over 10,000 buildings, raising total fatalities to at least 29. Both fires have since been subdued and reached full containment last week, culminating in a return to essential transportation across this vital artery.

Mayor Karen Bass indicated ongoing recovery efforts, stating, "We continue to adapt in real time to this dynamic situation," while authorities remain cautious about impending weather changes. Rain is anticipated, prompting officials to closely monitor the highway for risks, including mudslides and debris flows.

For further details, refer to the original coverage on India Times.