Phased Restoration of Landslide-Affected Roads Near Baluganj: Shimla DC
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Shimla, August 21, 2024: An emergency meeting was held today under the chairmanship of Shimla Deputy Commissioner (DC) Anupam Kashyap to address the landslide near Baluganj. The DC emphasized that while there has been no significant damage so far, the surrounding areas remain at risk. Until the situation stabilizes, traffic will continue to follow the alternative routes that were previously established.
The landslide has completely disrupted two main roads: Baluganj to Chaura Maidan and Baluganj to Crossing. Given their importance for city and district traffic, these roads have been closed entirely for safety reasons. DC Kashyap assured that the restoration of these routes would be carried out in a phased manner to prevent any further damage.
To manage the debris and prevent additional landslides, special agencies have been called in to develop a careful restoration plan. The DC also noted that the landslide area contains essential infrastructure, including electric poles, fiber optic cables, and water pipelines, which have been assessed by the respective departments for alternative arrangements.
DC Kashyap urged city residents to cooperate fully with the temporary traffic arrangements and advised those traveling to offices, schools, and other destinations to plan their journeys in advance.
Shimla’s Superintendent of Police (SP), Sanjeev Kumar Gandhi, reiterated the complete closure of these roads for public safety and confirmed that alternative routes are being effectively managed. Following the meeting, the DC, along with the SP and other officials, visited the landslide site to assess the situation and discuss the prompt restoration of traffic on the affected roads.
The meeting was attended by various officials, including the Mayor of Shimla Surendra Chauhan, Municipal Commissioner Bhupendra Atri, ADM Jyoti Rana, SDM Bhanu Gupta, and representatives from the Public Works Department, Police, Electricity, Forest, and Municipal Corporation, among others.
