Infra push at Atal Tunnel: Solar-powered CCTVs, parking planned

Kullu Deputy Commissioner Torul S Raveesh has directed the Project Officer of Himurja to visit the South Portal of the Atal Tunnel at Dhundi, near Manali, and assess electricity requirements for the operation of CCTV cameras. She instructed the officer to submit a specification report for power supply through solar energy to enable the timely installation of the cameras. The Himurja Project Officer confirmed that specifications for solar panels have been finalized and the process is underway.

The DC also directed the Forest Department to propose an additional budget allocation to the Government of India for constructing necessary infrastructure to enhance facilities in the area.

Efforts to improve amenities around the Atal Tunnel are ongoing. The cleanliness drive is being reinforced, and toilet construction near the South Portal is progressing. Meanwhile, toilet facilities at Solang Nala have been completed.

To accommodate local vendors and improve tourist convenience, a designated vending zone is being developed at Dhundi, expected to be completed before the summer tourist season. This will provide space for various vendors catering to visitors.

Since its inauguration on October 3, 2020, the Atal Tunnel has witnessed a surge in tourist traffic, with lakhs of vehicles passing through annually to visit Lahaul valley. Many tourists halt at the South Portal at Dhundi, but the absence of food and drink facilities from Solang Nala to the tunnel and the lack of proper parking arrangements remain major concerns. To address this, the tourism department has received approval to construct a dedicated parking area and set up a cafeteria offering food and beverage services.

The issue of littering near the tunnel, highlighted in The Tribune on July 3, 2022, also caught the High Court’s attention. This has led to significant improvements in cleanliness at both portals of the tunnel. The installation of CCTVs will help penalize litterers, while new infrastructure developments will enhance the overall experience for tourists visiting the tunnel.