The Union Ministry of Environment and Forest has given its approval for the construction of a 20-km-long four-lane stretch and a 32-km stretch between Miles and Rajol villages in Kangra district. This project is part of Phase-II and involves a total investment of Rs 8,000 crore. The delay in construction due to the absence of forest clearance has now been resolved, as over 7.28 hectares of forestland are involved.
Last year, global bids for the second phase of the project were opened in New Delhi, and the contract worth Rs 678 crore was awarded to Gawar Construction Company based in Gurugram. The construction work for the first phase is already in progress. The clearance from the Ministry ensures the timely completion of this significant highway project, which has been pending since 2017.
This 219-km four-lane road is a crucial strategic project connecting Pathankot to Leh, Ladakh, and other forward areas. Considering the defense requirements, the government aims to expedite the project completion. Once finished, the travel distance between Pathankot and Mandi will be reduced from 219 km to 171 km.
