Panel to Inspect Four-Lane Tunnel Work Amid Cracks in Shimla Buildings

Shimla, October 17: Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap has constituted a committee to inspect the latest status of four-lane tunnel construction after residents of Sanjauli, Bhattakufar and Dhalli reported cracks in buildings allegedly caused by blasting during the work.

The issue was discussed at a meeting between the district administration and representatives of the Four-Lane Affected Committee. The tunnel construction has been halted following concerns over damage to residential buildings. An IIT Roorkee team has been assigned to inspect the affected areas and damaged structures and prepare a detailed report. The team has already visited the site and is expected to submit its findings to the district administration within a week. Further decisions on the tunnel work will be taken based on the report.

During the meeting, committee representatives also alleged that tunnel construction was being carried out secretly despite the stoppage. In response, the Deputy Commissioner constituted an inspection panel under the chairmanship of the two Additional District Magistrates. The panel includes the Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Shimla Rural; Executive Engineer, Public Works Department, Kasumpti Division; and Tehsildar, Shimla Rural.

The panel has been directed to inspect the site on October 22 and submit a report on the current status of the construction work.

ADM (Law and Order) Pankaj Sharma, ADM (Protocol) Gyan Sagar Negi, District Revenue Officer Shivani Bhardwaj and representatives of the affected committee attended the meeting.

Samagra Sikhsha