NHAI okays another phase of Mandi-Pathankot road project

Ravinder Sood

Palampur, July 6

The NHAI has approved the construction of another 20-km stretch of the Pathankot-Mandi four-lane project between Thanpuri and Parour in Kangra.

Global bids for the second phase of the project were opened at the NHAI headquarters in New Delhi yesterday and the work, valuing Rs 815.68 crore, was awarded to a private company for its completion in 21 months.

The work for the first phase had already been awarded. This was conveyed to the state government by Union Minister for Surface Transport Nitin Gadkari.

Anil Sen, NHAI Project Director, told The Tribune that the land acquisition for this phase was in the final stage, which was one of the conditions for the completion of the bidding process. Sen termed the decision of the NHAI a major achievement for the early completion of the Rs 8,000 crore four-lane strategic project, hanging fire since 2017.

The company would soon start construction after getting forest and environment clearances. As per a project report, the width of the road will be between 35 meters and 60 meters, depending on land availability.

A seven-km bypass will also be constructed at Nagrota Bagwan to avoid dislocation of the market and human settlements. Besides, half a dozen bridges will also be constructed. Sen said disbursement of compensation would be started soon.

The 219-km four-lane road is one of the strategic projects linking Pathankot with Leh, Ladakh and other forward areas. Considering defence requirements, the Centre wants to complete it early.

Official sources said the report, prepared by Joint Ventures and Infrastructure Casta Limited in 2016, would remain the same in the second phase and will only be amended on the last 100-km stretch falling between Parour and Mandi where cutting of a high mountain was involved. The distance between Pathankot and Mandi would be reduced.

To be completed in 21 months

• The construction of 20-km stretch of the four-lane project between Thanpuri and Parour has been approved
• Bids were opened at the NHAI headquarters and work, valuing Rs 815.68 crore, was awarded to a private company for its completion in 21 months
• The land acquisition for this phase is in final stage