Sharp curve at entry, no pedestrian path raise questions over design efficacy of newly opened Sanjauli tunnel in Shimla
The Newz Radar
SHIMLA: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu officially inaugurated the new tunnel connecting upper Shimla to Sanjauli on Monday (December 25, 2023). The 155-metre-long double-lane tunnel, a project initiated in March 2022, aims to alleviate traffic congestion in the region. However, concerns have already emerged regarding potential traffic jams and pedestrian safety.
The focal point of apprehension is a sharp curve at the Sanjauli end of the tunnel. The original plan intended to extend the road to create a straight path in front of the tunnel, but space constraints hindered this, resulting in a sharp turn. This unexpected design choice has raised questions about its impact on traffic flow, potentially leading to jams in an area where the objective was to reduce congestion.
Local residents and authorities are expressing discontent over the lack of a dedicated footpath along the road leading to the tunnel. Pedestrian safety has become a primary concern, as the absence of a designated walking area increases the risk of accidents. The oversight in urban planning is particularly striking given the tunnel’s purpose of enhancing overall transportation infrastructure and safety.
The contrast between the new tunnel and the historic 1852 British-era tunnel is evident. The latter, a 560-feet-long single-lane structure, was a critical part of the Indo-Tibet border road. The decision to construct a new double-lane tunnel was driven by the need to address traffic issues associated with the outdated single-lane tunnel. However, the current concerns about the new tunnel’s design and its potential failure to alleviate traffic problems are casting doubt on the efficacy of the project.
The Chief Minister, while inaugurating the tunnel, acknowledged the concerns raised by the public and assured a thorough review of the traffic management plan. The government plans to work closely with urban planning experts to explore viable solutions, including potential modifications to the road layout.
As Shimla residents eagerly anticipated relief from traffic congestion, the unexpected sharp curve and absence of footpaths have become focal points of debate. The effectiveness of the new tunnel in achieving its intended purpose now hinges on swift and effective measures to address these issues and ensure the safety and convenience of both motorists and pedestrians.
