Commuters bear brunt of delayed Pathankot-Mandi four-lane project
The delayed construction of the Pathankot-Mandi National Highway’s four-lane project, particularly the phase-one stretch from Kandwal to Bhedkhud in Nurpur, has become a major concern for commuters and residents.
The project, initiated in May 2022 and scheduled for completion by May 2024, remains far from finished, leaving the highway riddled with potholes, clouds of dust, and lacking proper indicators. The hazardous conditions have led to numerous fatal accidents over the past two years, with locals accusing the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and contractors of gross negligence.
The incomplete flyover bridge at Jassur, Kangra’s main wholesale business hub, and other unpaved sections of the road have disrupted daily life and business operations. Key stretches such as Jassur to Kandwal near Chhatrolli, Raja ka Bagh, Nagabari, Pakka Tiala, and Khushingar to Bhedkhud remain in poor condition. The Nurpur bypass is also incomplete, adding to commuters’’ woes.
According to Akil Bakshi, director of the Ranjit Bakshi Jankalyan Foundation in Jassur, the project’s delays have directly caused 42 road accidents in the past 30 months, claiming 10 lives. Bakshi has actively flagged concerns over the lack of adherence to public safety norms by the contractors.
The NHAI awarded the 28-km phase-one construction contract to Mumbai-based IRB Infrastructure Developers Private Ltd for Rs 828 crore. However, the project was further subcontracted to a Punjab-based company, which has been criticised for its slow pace of work. The flyover at Jassur, a critical component with a span of 900 metres supported by 32 pillars, has seen only minimal progress. In over 30 months, slabs have been laid on just four pillars. Work on capping the remaining pillars and relocating high-tension power lines overhead is yet to begin.
The delays have not only increased the risk of accidents but also adversely impacted the local economy. Traders in Jassur report a significant decline in business due to restricted accessibility and poor infrastructure. In contrast, the Kangra-Shimla highway widening project has made satisfactory progress, with its Ranital flyover completed and operational since June 2023, highlighting the disparity in execution between the two projects.
Inquiries reveal that the NHAI has submitted a request for an extension of the project timeline to higher authorities, as confirmed by Vikas Surejawala, NHAI project director, Palampur. However, this provides little solace to the affected residents and commuters who demand urgent action. They have called for round-the-clock deployment of workforce and equipment to expedite the construction.
The prolonged delay and poor management of the project have left locals disillusioned with the authorities. The dire condition of the highway and the stalled flyover construction at Jassur underscore the urgent need for accountability and efficient execution to ensure public safety and revive the region’s economy. Commuters, traders, and residents await swift resolution to the growing crisis on this critical highway.
