Four-Lane Sangharsh Samiti threatens action over highway alignment change
The Four-Lane Sangharsh Samiti, representing 35 panchayats of Jogindernagar subdivision, has intensified its agitation against the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) for altering the alignment of the Pathankot-Mandi four-lane highway. At a meeting in Galu near Jogindernagar, members expressed concerns over the exclusion of key towns, including Ahju, Chauntra, Jogindernagar and Urla from the proposed route.
Leaders called on Union Minister for Roads and Transport Nitin Gadkari to ensure the highway alignment benefits more residents. They urged the NHAI to reconsider its plan, highlighting that the previous alignment would directly serve 2.5 lakh people across 39 panchayats. In contrast, the new route would only benefit 10 panchayats and necessitate the felling of over 5,000 trees across 1,000 hectares of reserved forest land.
Brij Gopal Awasthi, a prominent leader, revealed that NHAI recently appointed a new consultant to prepare a detailed project report (DPR). He criticized the earlier decision to bypass significant towns such as Palampur, Baijnath, and Chauntra, which has led to widespread resentment. Awasthi reminded the media of the assurances given by Gadkari during a previous meeting to respect public sentiments and revise the DPR accordingly.
The samiti warned that if their demands were not met, they would resort to direct action. Residents of Joginder Nagar, Chauntra, Gumma, Harabhag and Urla have united in the demand for a fair alignment that balances development with environmental and social concerns.
The samiti has vowed to continue its struggle, emphasising that the alignment should cater to the majority of the population while preserving ecological balance.
