Himachal: Vital highways in tatters despite takeover by NHAI

Despite the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) taking over two major highways in Himachal Pradesh — Pathankot-Mandi and Kangra-Shimla — in 2016, their condition remains a cause for serious concern. While widening work has commenced on certain stretches, large portions of both highways are in a poor state due to official bottlenecks, delayed approvals and non-finalisation of detailed project reports (DPRs). These roads, which see thousands of vehicles daily, are vital lifelines for commuters and residents alike.

On the Kangra-Shimla highway, road widening is currently underway between Kangra and Hamirpur. However, there has been no progress beyond Hamirpur. The condition of the road from Ranital onwards is particularly deplorable. Construction companies abandoned their work midway, leaving roads and bridges incomplete. This has not only caused massive inconvenience to travelers but also severely affected residents living along the highway. The constant dust and poor road conditions have led to health issues, particularly respiratory problems among locals.

The situation between Hamirpur and Shimla is even worse. The stretch is full of potholes, making it dangerous to drive. Accidents are reported frequently, yet no significant repair work has been undertaken. Similar issues plague the Pathankot-Mandi highway. Construction work between Chakki Bridge and Nurpur is progressing at a snail’s pace. The flyover at Jasur has been under construction for over two years without completion.

Further, the NHAI has proposed a new alignment beyond Palampur, abandoning the old narrow highway, which has now deteriorated due to neglect. Several bridges on this route, built during the British era over 150 years ago, have outlived their lifespan and urgently need replacement. However, the NHAI’s current focus on constructing new four-lane highways has resulted in complete disregard for the maintenance of older stretches.

Of particular concern is a 10-km stretch on the Pathankot-Mandi highway between Paror and Kalu Di Hatti near the Agro Petrol Pump, Palampur. The narrow road has turned into a death trap, with several fatal accidents reported, yet no corrective measures have been taken by the NHAI.

With the rapid rise in traffic on both highways, their maintenance and expansion have become even more crucial. Despite the urgency, official sources confirm that construction on several remaining sections is stalled, awaiting clearance of DPRs from higher authorities.

In the current scenario, neither the NHAI nor the Public Works Department appears serious about addressing these pressing issues, leaving commuters and residents to suffer the consequences of delayed development and official apathy.

Himachal Tribune