Breakthrough achieved, ends of 1,200-m Kangra tunnel meet

Raghav Guleria

Dharamsala, July 20

A ‘tunnel breakthrough ceremony’ on the Ranital-Kangra stretch of the Kangra-Shimla four-lane project on Saturday marked a significant milestone for the National Highways Authority of India. Being constructed at a cost of Rs 1,323 crore, the four-lane project is likely to complete by December 2024.

The over 1,200-metre twin tube tunnel is being constructed at a cost of about Rs 200 crore. The breakthrough ceremony was presided over by Abdul Basit, RO, NHAI, Shimla.

Talking to The Tribune, NHAI Project Director Vikram Singh Meena said, “We are thrilled to announce the ‘tunnel breakthrough ceremony’, marking a major milestone in the construction of the Kangra bypass tunnel. The event celebrates the successful completion of the tunnel excavation phase, a critical step in the ambitious infrastructure project.”

Key facts on Kangra twin tube tunnel

• Excavation started: October 2023
• Expected completion time: December 2024
• Cost of tunnel project: Rs 200 crore
• Tunnel breakthrough achieved: July 20, 2024
• Length: 1,200 metres
• Total concrete to be used: 65,000 CUM
• Total steel to be used: 3000 MT

The excavation work started in October 2023 and is likely to complete by December when the tunnel will be thrown open to public. While the breakthrough of the left tube was achieved today, both tubes will be connected in the middle through a cross passage to ensure safety of commuters in case an emergency.

Once the project is completed, the distance between Ranital and Kangra will be reduced by 6 km and travelling time cut from 45 minutes to 15 minutes.

The tunnel will also provide entry to heavy transport vehicles, which were unable to reach Kangra earlier because of the low height of the present tunnel dating back to the colonial times.

It is learnt that about 1,000 trees have been saved with the construction of the tunnel. Besides saving time, the tunnel will also provide a safe and smooth journey in the hilly terrain. It will also save fuel, besides reducing air pollution.

Once the Kangra tunnel is complete, various systems and equipment that are installed and maintained to ensure safety, functionality and efficient operation will become operational.

These systems include high-capacity fans for ventilation, LED or fluorescent lights for illumination, smoke detectors, fire alarms, sprinkler systems, fire extinguishers and emergency exits. Besides traffic signals, variable message signs, automated toll systems and lane control systems will also become functional.