Union Ministry Approves Final Alignment for Jalori Tunnel, Enhancing Connectivity Between Bhargol and Shoja
Jalori Pass. (File photo)
Construction of 4.2 km Tunnel and Approach Roads to Improve Access to Kullu District Headquarters
Anni (Kullu), 28 December: The Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has officially approved the alignment for the long-awaited Jalori Tunnel, which will stretch 4.2 kilometers from Bhargol to Shoja. Along with the tunnel, two approach roads will be constructed—one extending 2 kilometers from Anni and another 5.5 kilometers from Banjar. This project is expected to significantly reduce travel time and enhance accessibility for the residents of the region.
Upon completion, the Jalori Tunnel will shorten the distance between Jalori and Kullu by 8 kilometers, making it easier for the people of Anni and Nirmand sub-divisions to stay connected to the district headquarters, Kullu, throughout the year. The tunnel will also prevent the disruption caused by heavy snowfall at the Jalori Pass, which currently isolates the region during winter months, forcing people to either risk crossing the pass on foot or take a 100-kilometer detour via Mandi.
The approval of the tunnel’s final alignment clears the way for the next steps, including land acquisition and the preparation of the Detailed Project Report (DPR). KL Suman, Executive Engineer of NHAI, confirmed that this project will ensure year-round connectivity to Kullu for the affected communities.
Public Works Department Minister Vikramaditya Singh had earlier appealed to Union Minister Nitin Gadkari to expedite the tunnel’s construction. The newly approved alignment has been carefully planned to protect the environment, particularly the Serolsar Lake, which is located six kilometers from Jalori Pass at an elevation of 10,000 feet.
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The people of Anni have long advocated for the tunnel, as they have faced significant hardships due to the difficult conditions at the Jalori Pass. With the official approval, the project is now set to move forward, and Anni MLA Lokender Kumar expressed his gratitude to Union Minister Gadkari for fulfilling the promise made during a public meeting before the last Lok Sabha elections. The project is poised to bring immense relief to the local population and improve overall connectivity in the region.
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