Bypass to prove major respite for tricity residents

In works since 2013, the six-lane project will be a sort of eastern bypass for the tricity.

The 19.2-km road will begin from the Chhat light point and end at Old Panchkula chowk. Of the total length, 13-km stretch will be at a certain height from the starting point to McDonald’s point. Rest of 6-km section towards the Panchkula side will be elevated road alongside the Ghaggar river. From the McDonald’s point, the road will pass through Peer Muchalla, Sanoli and Panchkula before merging with the Zirakpur-Parwanoo highway.

Once the major project is complete, it will relieve Zirakpur and Chandigarh of vehicles passing through the two cities on their way ahead. Traffic coming from Ambala side and going to Shimla will bypass before entering Zirakpur. Those going from Mohali towards Shimla will not have to enter Zirakpur. Traffic from Shimla side can move to Ambala without entering Zirakpur. The K-Area light point, a major congestion point and a black spot, is also likely to become less prone to accidents.

Panchkula residents will also get an alternative route to the SBSI Airport in Mohali. Motorists going towards Yamunanagar and Kala Amb are also to benefit, said Ashim Bansal, NHAI project director.

Around 1 lakh vehicles from Punjab, HP and Haryana enter Chandigarh daily. The Madhya Marg and Dakshin Marg, are also going to benefit after completion of the bypass.