Chandigarh-Manali highway sinks near Dayod Mod in Mandi

Tribune News Service

Mandi, August 12

The Chandigarh-Manali national highway has once again suffered heavy damage at Dayod Mod following relentless rainfall in the region in Mandi district. Approximately 60-metre portion of the road was damaged yesterday, with one side sinking around four feet towards the Beas river. The affected stretch of the road has completely subsided, leading to the closure of one lane.

In view of the ongoing downpour, the area is facing threat of landslides. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is actively engaged in clearing the rubble that has got accumulated on the road from the mountainside.

The road’s collapse is not an isolated incident. During the rainy season last year, this segment had begun to sink and minor cracks started appearing on the surface. This time, the situation has deteriorated drastically, with the initial cracks turning into virtual trench. The continued erosion and unstable conditions have rendered the road section highly dangerous.

The authorities are monitoring the situation and have issued warnings to drivers and residents to exercise caution while using this stretch. The NHAI is working on a contingency plan to stabilise the road and mitigate any further damage. The ongoing heavy rains have complicated repair efforts.

When asked, Varun Chari, project Director of NHAI Kiratpur-Manali fourlane project, said, “We are working to repair this damaged road stretch to restore it to normal traffic at the earliest. However, one lane of this highway is safe and currently traffic movement is operational on it.”

As the situation evolves, it is crucial for travellers and residents to stay informed through official updates and adhere to safety advisories to avoid any potential hazards.