Highway Restoration in Focus: Ajay Tamta, Jairam Thakur Review Disaster-Hit Areas

Mandi, Sept 14: Union Minister of State for Road Transport & Highways Ajay Tamta, along with former Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition Jairam Thakur, visited disaster-affected areas of Seraj constituency in Mandi district. Tamta announced that the Kiratpur–Manali four-lane highway will be restored up to Manali by September 20, with an immediate provision of ₹201 crore. He also directed urgent repairs on NH-305 at Balichowki, reconstruction of Thachi major district road, and installation of a valley bridge at Mani village.

Highlighting the extensive damage, Tamta said that the central government under PM Narendra Modi has already provided ₹1,500 crore in relief and over ₹200 crore in advance funds through NDRF and SDRF. He assured that the destroyed highways will be rebuilt with improved standards. Jairam Thakur expressed gratitude for the minister’s visit, stating it will accelerate restoration work critical for apple growers and farmers suffering huge losses due to road blockages.

Tamta also inspected multiple damaged sites along the Kiratpur–Manali four-lane, including Pandoh, Dawara flyover, Jhalogi tunnel, Thalout, Aut, Nagwain, Bhuntar, Kullu, Shird, Bindudhak, and Manali. Senior NHAI officials, local leaders, and district administration accompanied the visit.