Emphasis on Ghatasani-Shilh-Budhani-Bhubhu Jot Tunnel Connecting Kangra and Kullu

Shimla Aug 30

During a meeting with senior officers of the National Highways Authority of India, there was a call to expedite the restoration of National Highways damaged by heavy rains and landslides in the state. The Mandi-Manali four-lane, particularly near Pandoh in Mandi, suffered significant damage. Additional manpower and officials should be deployed to vulnerable points on this project to speed up the restoration work. Temporary refurbishment should be completed by October 15, before Kullu Dussehra. A tunnel under Kainchi Maur in Mandi district is also being considered for a permanent solution.

Due to the ongoing apple season, the government must ensure timely transportation to markets. After the apple season, the potato crop in Lahaul will be ready, necessitating immediate restoration of the highways for proper road access.

Construction of three major tunnels was emphasized. The Ghatasani-Shilh-Budhani-Bhubhu Jot tunnel will connect Kangra and Kullu, promoting tourism and shortening the Kangra-Manali distance by 55 kilometers. The Chowari-Chamba tunnel and a tunnel from Bhawa valley to Pin valley will provide all-weather connectivity and boost tourism.

The Chief Minister pushed for progress on the Shimla-Mataur four-lane project, promoting tourism and aiming to increase annual tourist visits to 5 crore. The damaged Parwanoo-Solan four-lane issue was raised, stressing avoidance of vertical cutting for slope stabilization. Proper drainage and disposal of water were requested, and restoration work of two bridges damaged in Baddi was urged for the industrial area’s benefit.

The Chairman of NHAI assured that they are committed to restoring the National Highways permanently and promptly.