Rajesh Kapoor Raises Concern Over Slow Progress on NH-003 with Union Minister

Mandi, April 23: The issue of sluggish progress on the widening of National Highway-003 between Mandi and Kotli has reached the attention of the central government. Rajesh Kapoor, founder of the Pannalal Raksha Memorial Trust, submitted a formal memorandum to Union Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways, Harsh Malhotra, during a meeting in Delhi.

Kapoor expressed deep concern over the delayed pace of work, pointing out that although the project began two years ago, its current progress suggests it may take several more years to complete. He emphasized the daily hardships faced by thousands of residents in the Tungal region who rely heavily on this route for commuting to the Mandi district headquarters.

He further highlighted the deteriorated condition of the road due to ongoing construction, which has made travel extremely difficult for local commuters.

Kapoor also raised concerns about Surya Construction Company, which is handling the project. He alleged that the company has not only been lackadaisical in its approach but has also failed to pay timely rent for properties it has leased from local residents.

Calling for urgent intervention, Kapoor requested the Union Minister to take immediate action to expedite the project. He reported that the Minister assured him of prompt action on the matter.