Pune-based Firm to Assess Landslide Damage Between Kainchimod and Dayod on NH-3

Mandi, July 30:
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has appointed a Pune-based company to assess the recurring landslide damage along the stretch from Kainchimod to Dayod near Pandoh on the Chandigarh-Manali National Highway. Based on the findings, NHAI plans to implement advanced techniques to stabilize the hillsides and provide a long-term solution to the frequent landslides in the area.

This section of the highway has been experiencing continuous rock and debris falls for the past two years. Many of the retaining walls constructed by NHAI have either collapsed or developed large cracks, posing ongoing safety risks. According to NHAI Project Director Varun Chari, the hills in this area lack rock formations, which causes debris to slide directly onto the highway even with moderate rainfall.

The landslides have not only blocked the highway but also damaged the retaining structures. The situation remains the same throughout the stretch from Kainchimod to the Dayod tunnel, leading to significant losses for NHAI. The Pune-based firm will now carry out a detailed assessment of the damage, following which more effective landslide mitigation strategies will be implemented.

Earlier today, a landslide near Kainchimod led to the closure of the highway for four hours. Large volumes of debris and rocks tumbled down onto the road around 4 a.m. The debris was cleared with the help of heavy machinery, and by around 8 a.m., one lane of the highway was reopened to traffic.

Pandoh police outpost in-charge, Anil Katoch, stated that heavy rain delayed the debris clearance work. The company’s machinery reached the site by around 6 a.m., after which the clearance operation began. Police monitored the situation and safely guided stranded vehicles once partial access was restored.

Highway Section Subsides Again

Meanwhile, a portion of the highway near Kainchimod, adjacent to the Beas River, has subsided once again. This stretch was severely damaged during the 2023 monsoon disaster and has remained vulnerable since. Every year during the monsoon, this section suffers repeated damage. Currently, only one-way traffic is allowed through the affected area as a precaution.