Pandoh bypass project progress hampered over payment conflict

Conflict between contractors and construction companies over delayed payment has hampered the progress of Pandoh-Takoli bypass project on the Kiratpur-Manali four-lane in Mandi district.

Sources say that the halt was primarily over the contractors not receiving timely payments from the construction firms involved in the project. However, a consensus was reached on Sunday between the contractors and company management, paving the way for the resumption of construction work.

Despite this agreement, the work did not restart as planned today. Contractors continue to demand the settlement of their outstanding payments, while construction companies have promised to disburse the final payments within a few days.

The bypass project involves the construction of 10 tunnels, of which five have already been opened to traffic. The primary access for these tunnels is at Dyod, where work had been suspended, raising concerns about the project’s timeline and its completion date.

Varun Chari, Director of the National Highways Authority of India, Kiratpur-Manali four-lane project, said the dispute between the construction companies and contractors has been largely resolved. He emphasised the importance of the project and announced a target completion date of March 2026 for the construction companies.

The project is not only vital for improving connectivity but also has significant strategic implications for the region. As work is set to commence, stakeholders are optimistic that the momentum will be regained, allowing for timely completion despite the earlier setbacks.

The Kiratpur-Manali highway is a lifeline for the tourism industry of Kullu-Manali and Lahaul and Spiti. The tourism stakeholders are awaiting the completion of this project so that the tourism industry got a boost.