Manali bypass moves closer to reality

The long-pending Manali bypass project has gained momentum, with the Forest Department granting permission to cut down 56 deodar trees. This key clearance paves the way for construction of the 1.8-km road, aimed at easing the chronic traffic congestion in the popular hill town. The project now awaits administrative approval, following which tenders will be floated and groundwork can begin.

The bypass is expected to significantly reduce traffic jams, especially during the busy tourist season. A budget of around Rs 3.5 crore has been earmarked for the project, and the foundation stone was laid earlier this year by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu.

Initially, the bypass was to run along the Beas, from the four-lane bridge to Old Manali. However, this alignment was dropped due to the large number of trees that would have needed to be felled. A revised route was later approved, connecting the four-lane bridge to Old Manali bridge via Van Vihar. It will then link to the Log Huts road, improving access to Hadimba Temple and other key locations.

Once completed, the bypass will offer an alternative route towards Solang Nala, the Atal Tunnel and Rohtang Pass. It will also connect to the road from Club House to Nehru Kund, easing pressure on roads leading to Old Manali and benefiting local residents in Solang, Palchan, Gaushaal, Buruwa and Shanag.

Public Works Department Executive Engineer Anoop Sharma confirmed the forest clearance and said administrative approval was awaited. “Tenders will be issued soon after the final nod,” he added. Rajesh, Divisional Forest Officer of the Wildlife Department, noted that trees marked for felling will be identified again before removal begins.

Local stakeholders have welcomed the progress. Sanjeev Thakur, president of the Manali Beopar Mandal, called the project a “milestone,” while entrepreneur Budhi Prakash Thakur said the bypass would improve access to essential services during peak tourist periods.