Work on one tube of 1,200-m twin-tube tunnel completed

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has achieved a major milestone by completing the finishing work on one tube of the 1,200-meter twin-tube tunnel at Daulatpur. The tunnel, constructed at a cost of Rs 200 crore, is part of the Kangra-Ranital stretch of the Shimla-Kangra four-lane project. The second tube is also structurally ready but requires finishing, which is expected to take another two months. However, the tunnel has not yet been opened to traffic, as a culvert on the highway toward Kangra is still under construction.

The Kangra-Bhangwar phase of the highway, being built at a total cost of Rs 1,323 crore by Gawar Construction Company, is expected to significantly improve connectivity in the region. According to official sources, excavation work for the twin-tube tunnel began in October 2023 and was completed in record time. Both tubes are connected at the centre through a cross-passage, designed to enhance commuter safety in case of emergencies.

Once fully operational, the tunnel will reduce the distance between Ranital and Kangra by 6 km and cut travel time from 45 minutes to just 15 minutes. The new structure will also provide smoother access for heavy transport and passenger vehicles, which previously faced difficulties reaching Kangra, Palampur and Dharamsala due to the low height of the existing colonial-era tunnel.

The project has also placed a strong emphasis on environmental conservation. By constructing the twin-tube tunnel, over 1,000 trees in the hilly terrain have been preserved. Besides reducing travel time, the tunnel is expected to improve road safety, lower fuel consumption, and help control air pollution in the region.

Once the tunnel is completed, an advanced infrastructure system will be put in place to ensure safety and efficiency. High-capacity fans will provide ventilation, while LED or fluorescent lights will improve visibility. Fire safety measures, including smoke detectors, fire alarms, sprinklers, and fire extinguishers, will be installed.