MANDI: The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has initiated a geo-tagging investigation to address the recurring landslide problem at the 9 Miles stretch on the Chandigarh-Manali National Highway in Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh.
The move aims to find a long-term solution for the unstable hillside that has caused severe traffic disruptions. The investigation will determine whether a bridge should be constructed, the existing road widened or hillside stabilisation measures should be implemented.
The 9 Miles section has become a critical challenge for the NHAI due to the frequent landslides, especially during this year’s monsoon season. While similar issues were encountered at the 6 and 7 Miles stretches last year, where tunnel construction is now being considered, the 9 Miles stretch has emerged as a particularly problematic area.
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NHAI Project Director Varun Chari stated that the findings from the geo-tagging report would guide the decision on which solution was most viable: stabilising the hillside, widening the road or constructing a bridge.
Frequent landslides worsen situation
This year, the 9 Miles point between Mandi and Pandoh has witnessed the highest number of landslides, with several vehicles caught in the debris falling from the hill. In one instance, a bus from the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) was hit by falling rocks.
The situation has deteriorated to the point where the road has become dangerously narrow, allowing only one-way traffic to pass. On one side, there is the constantly eroding hillside, while on the other, there is a steep gorge dropping down to the Beas river. Any further erosion or subsidence could lead to complete closure of the highway at this section.
Although the monsoon season has ended, the threat of landslides remains, making it essential to find a permanent solution. The NHAI has already begun efforts in this direction, starting with the geo-tagging investigation, which will provide insights into the best course of action moving forward.
Urgent need for long-term solution
Given the critical nature of the situation, a permanent resolution for the 9 Miles stretch is seen as urgent. The NHAI has emphasised that the geo-tagging investigation was just the first step in this process and further measures would be taken based on the findings.
In the meantime, the local administration and the NHAI are working to ensure traffic flow remained uninterrupted, albeit under strict safety precautions, while the investigation is underway. The future course of action would be a key step in ensuring safe travel along this vital highway, which serves as a crucial link between the plains and the hill region of Himachal Pradesh.
