Locals seek urgent repair of Aut-Luhri road stretch

Local residents held a protest at Banjar in Kullu district on Tuesday against the dilapidated condition of the Aut-Luhri stretch of the National Highway-305 (NH-305). The highway, which connects key tourist destinations such as the Jalori Pass and the Great Himalayan National Park, is considered the lifeline of the region’s economy. The protest, organised under the banner of the NH-305 Sangharsh Samiti, was led by Captain Kishan Chauhan (retd) and Ram Singh Mian, chairman of the Kullu APMC and Lahaul and Spiti.

For years, locals have been calling for the maintenance and repair of this critical route but despite numerous appeals to the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and both state and Central governments, the situation continued to deteriorate. The protesters raised slogans against the NHAI, demanding immediate action to widen and metal the road.

The highway, a vital link between the key NH-03 and NH-05, plays a crucial role in facilitating tourism, trade and emergency services in the region. However, the poor condition of the road has made it increasingly difficult for both locals and tourists to traverse the area safely.

Captain Kishan Chand, coordinator of the NH-305 Sangharsh Samiti, expressed the community’s growing frustration. “We have been pleading for the repair of the road for over 20 years. The highway is in a poor condition despite our constant reminders to the authorities concerned. Our demand is for immediate maintenance of the road to ensure safety and better access for everyone,” he added.

The protest garnered the support of local organisations, taxi unions, panchayats and community groups. With no response from the authorities yet, the residents have threatened to escalate protests if their demands are not addressed promptly.

Himachal Tribune