After 77 years of Independence, Garuli village gets road access

After 77 years of India’s independence, the remote village of Garuli in Shilli gram panchayat, located in the Banjar sub-division of Kullu district, finally got road access on Friday.

The long-awaited road, which connects the village with nearby areas, is set to bring much-needed relief to the residents by making transportation easier and more efficient. The road construction process began in 2018.

The villagers have expressed gratitude to the state and local administration for fulfilling a long-standing demand.

The road, which is expected to benefit nearly 900 residents of the panchayat, will not only ease transportation but will also boost tourism in the area.

Known for its natural beauty, the region holds vast potential for eco-tourism. Located in the picturesque Tirthan valley, Garuli is famous for its apple production. At an altitude of 8,700 ft, it is home to the Bhindi Thach Cricket Stadium, a well-known venue for annual cricket tournaments in April. Now, with the road in place, players and tourists from across the state will find it much easier to reach the stadium, which is only a 20-minute walk from Garuli village.

Yog Raj, a local resident, said the road construction process was not without its challenges. The project faced several hurdles, including land surveys, registry issues, and obtaining approvals from the Forest Department, which delayed progress. The case even reached the Supreme Court due to legal complexities.

Nevertheless, thanks to the tireless efforts of local officials and the villagers, the road project has finally materialised.

“Although the road currently goes close to Parwadhi village, the village is yet to fully benefit from the development. Efforts are underway to extend the road to Parwadhi and once the necessary Forest Conservation Act (FCA) clearance is obtained, the village will also be connected,” he added.

Mohar Singh, vice-pradhan of Shilli panchayat, thanked the residents who donated land for the road construction, acknowledging their significant contribution to this vital project. Special thanks were also extended to the local administration, whose relentless efforts ensured the timely completion of the road.

The gram panchayat of Shilli, including panchayat pradhan Shetu Devi, vice-pradhan Mohar Singh and numerous local residents, expressed their gratitude to Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, PWD Minister Vikramaditya Singh, Banjar MLA Surender Shourie, Chairman of APMC Kullu and Lahaul-Spiti Ram Singh Mian and the Public Works Department, Forest Department and the contractor for their support in making this project a reality.

The villagers are now hopeful that the road would soon be made fully accessible for vehicles, further enhancing connectivity and improving the overall quality of life for the people of the region.