Being widened to four lanes, potholed Malan-Paraur road a commuters’ nightmare

Travelling on the highway from Malan (Nagrota Bagwan) to Paraur in Kangra district has become a daily ordeal for commuters, thanks to the slow-moving four-lane construction work. What was once a smooth ride has turned into a risky affair, as potholes, dust clouds and muddy detours dominate the route.

The road condition worsens during the rainy season, as temporary alternative roads become slippery and waterlogged. Two-wheeler riders suffer the most, often skidding or falling on these treacherous paths. “It’s difficult to even see the road clearly when it’s raining and during sunshine, the dust makes it impossible to breathe,” says Dhyan Singh, a local resident who commutes by bike everyday.

Sachin Chaudhary, a Nagrota Bagwan resident, says, ‘Accidents have become a routine. Many travellers have suffered injuries, with some requiring treatment for fractures due to a fall. Vehicles get stuck or damaged, and people are forced to walk long distances when roads become non-negotiable.’

Residents are losing patience with the construction company handling the road project. While a 16-km four-lane road stretch was promised to be completed by December, locals are doubtful. “At this speed, the completion of the project seems uncertain even next year,” says another commuter.

People are now calling on the authorities to intervene, demanding both faster construction and better arrangements to ensure public safety and reduce daily hardships.