New tunnel alignment proposal on Pandoh bypass raises concern in Himachal
MANDI: The construction work on the Pandoh bypass, an essential part of the Chandigarh-Manali four-lane project, has stopped again due to ongoing safety concerns near Pandoh Dam.
After heavy rainfall this season and last year, extensive damage to the road network and portions of the existing four-lane road propelled the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to request an alignment change.
A new proposal suggests extending the initially planned 900-metre tunnel to provide a safer bypass option near Kainchi Mod, a landslide-prone area. However, logistical challenges have cast doubt on the feasibility of constructing this tunnel in the proposed location. Despite the call for an alignment shift, constructing a tunnel near Kainchi Mod seems challenging due to the area’s existing landslide risks. According to NHAI’s project director, Varun Chari, the current zone presents severe safety hazards, as it lies in an active landslide area.
Deep excavation would be required to make the tunnel safe, but this would complicate the alignment with nearby infrastructure. “A geo-tagged survey is underway to assess the area’s suitability and the results will soon be sent to the headquarters for further evaluation,” said Chari. The potential realignment could lengthen project timelines significantly, delaying the bypass project further.
Public outcry over traffic congestion
As the Pandoh bypass project remains in limbo, locals face significant challenges due to increased traffic congestion and frequent bottlenecks in Pandoh Market. Residents Balakrishna, Gaurav Verma and Pawan Kumar voiced their concerns, noting that while other sections of the four-lane project from Kirtarpur to Mandi and Aut to Manali are completed, Pandoh remains a major bottleneck. “We have seen progress everywhere else, but here we’re still waiting,” said a resident. Many locals have now demanded that the government expedite the bypass work and address the lingering safety issues around Pandoh Dam.
