Mandi-Pathankot four-lane road a blessing or curse for Shahpur?

Development is a fundamental right for every individual. In a modern society, development is a vital part of progress and prosperity. Himachal Pradesh, like many regions, has seen various developmental projects, some of which have garnered attention and appreciation, while others have raised concerns.

One such project is the Pathankot-Mandi four-lane highway, which has become a topic of discussion and debate, especially for the residents of Shahpur in Kangra district. The small town, a key trade hub surrounded by numerous villages, is facing both benefits and challenges due to the road project.

Importance of roads in national development

Roads form the backbone of any nation’s infrastructure, whether these are single-lane, double-lane or four-lane highways.

In a country like India, with a population exceeding a billion, roads are vital for connecting towns, cities and villages. The Pathankot-Mandi four-lane highway, part of a larger development effort in Himachal Pradesh, is one such project aimed at enhancing connectivity.

The construction of four-lane highways is designed to accommodate increasing traffic, ensure safer travel and promote economic growth by improving transportation efficiency.

Advantages of Pathankot-Mandi four-lane project

The Pathankot-Mandi highway, stretching over 250 km, is expected to accommodate more vehicles than the existing road, reducing congestion and improving traffic flow.

The inclusion of barriers between lanes reduces the risk of head-on collisions, which are common on two-lane roads. The smoother flow of traffic will cut travel time, benefiting commuters and businesses alike.
Well-maintained roads contribute to better vehicle performance, reducing wear and tear. Efficient transportation enables timely deliveries of goods and services, stimulating regional economies.

With wider roads and reduced traffic bottlenecks, the four-lane highway eases overtaking and reduces the need for risky manoeuvres. The highway holds significant value from the defence point of view, providing a crucial link to the India-Pakistan border.

Unintended consequences for Shahpur

While the four-lane promises development, it has also brought a host of challenges, especially for the residents of Shahpur and surrounding areas.

The highway expansion involves cutting of hills and axing of thousands of trees, which disrupts the ecosystem and contributes to increased runoff from paved surfaces.

The construction has resulted in the displacement of local people whose land has been acquired for road expansion, causing social upheaval in the area.

Mining activities and construction work have destabilised the region’s topography, increasing the risk of landslides and tremors.

Local businesses, particularly in Shahpur, have been severely impacted by land acquisitions and relocation, making it difficult for them to reach new customers and sustain operations.
In several cases, uncertainty over land ownership continues to complicate the acquisition process, leading to legal disputes and delays.

Locals call it a mixed bag of expectations

Anuj, a 24-year-old resident of Shahpur, expressed his frustration saying, “The four-lane has come as an opportunity, but it has also brought so many troubles.”

His shop, located along the Pathankot-Mandi highway, was severely damaged during land acquisition. For traders like Anuj, the road expansion has resulted in financial losses.

The damage caused by the four-lane project is not just confined to Shahpur. Other regions of Himachal Pradesh, including areas like Pinjore to Baddi, Shimla to Mataur and Mandi to Manali, are also witnessing similar challenges due to the four-lane construction.

Impact of natural disasters

The Pathankot-Mandi highway has also been affected by heavy rainfall, particularly during the 2023 monsoon season, which caused widespread landslides.

These natural disasters destroyed homes, businesses and infrastructure, claiming several lives. The Himachal Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority has highlighted that road construction contributes to slope instability, increasing the risk of landslides.

Unlike more popular tourist destinations like Dharamshala and McLeodganj in Kangra district, Shahpur does not attract large number of visitors.

The market, therefore, has been the primary source of livelihood for a large number of residents. But with the highway cutting through the area, several businesses have struggled to survive.

The youth in Shahpur, several of whom are involved in small businesses, now face uncertain futures as their businesses suffer from reduced foot traffic and economic instability.

The lack of new business opportunities and the challenge of relocating existing businesses has left the youth of Shahpur vulnerable. With limited access to government jobs and no industrial or tourism hubs, the future seems bleak for many young residents.

Need for balanced development

While the Pathankot-Mandi four-lane highway is undoubtedly a step toward improved infrastructure and connectivity, it is crucial for both state and central governments to pay special attention to the needs of local communities, particularly those like Shahpur.

The government must ensure that the development of infrastructure does not come at the cost of livelihoods and the environment.
As Himachal Pradesh continues to expand its road network, it is essential to strike a balance between development and ecology. The youth, who represent the future of the state, need more opportunities to thrive locally, rather than being forced to migrate or abandon their businesses.

In conclusion, the growth and development of people should be the highest priority in any leadership role. As Sir Harvey S. Firestone once famously said, “The growth and development of people is the highest calling of leadership.” Quality of life should always take precedence over the intensity of development, ensuring that progress benefits all, rather than leaving some behind.

Shrey Awasthi