The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is set to complete the Mandi-Pandoh stretch of the Kiratpur-Manali four-lane highway by the end of August, marking a significant milestone in improving connectivity on this vital route.

The section includes three key road bridges — two of which are nearly finished and expected to open shortly, while progress on the third depends on weather conditions. Persistent monsoon rains in the Mandi region have slowed work despite continuous construction efforts.

Project Director Varun Chari stated that, weather permitting, all three bridges would be operational by month-end. Opening the first two bridges will immediately ease congestion and improve road safety.

This stretch is especially crucial for residents and tourists travelling to Kullu-Manali and Lahaul-Spiti. During the monsoon and apple harvest season, traffic on this route is particularly heavy. Once complete, the project will reduce travel time, enhance safety, and boost tourism and transport in the region. The NHAI has committed to full mobilisation of resources to meet the deadline, subject to weather conditions.