The Himachal Pradesh unit of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) has sought an immediate halt to twin-tunnel construction in Shimla, citing cracks in buildings in Shanti Vihar ward, Bhattakufar and adjoining areas. The work is being undertaken by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) as part of a four-laning project. CPI(M) state secretary Sanjay Chauhan called for a comprehensive vulnerability assessment of the affected area before any further decision on the project. He also sought relief and compensation for residents whose houses and other properties have been damaged. According to the party, cracks have appeared in 10 to 12 houses above the tunnel alignment and have been widening in recent days. The CPI(M) said more than 300 buildings in the densely populated Bhattakufar and Shanti Vihar wards may be affected, while 3,500 to 4,000 house owners, tenants and small business operators may face consequences if construction continues. It warned that further damage could create a housing crisis and leave residents who invested their savings in their homes without secure accommodation. The party questioned NHAI’s decision to change the project alignment. It said the original plan provided a direct road connection between Bhattakufar and Dhalli, for which land had been acquired, compensation paid and some buildings demolished. The revised plan proposes twin tunnels beneath the populated areas, emerging near Chalaunthi, but the party alleged that the change was made without due legal procedures, public hearings or consultations with residents. Chauhan highlighted Himachal Pradesh’s geological and seismic sensitivity and referred to earlier damage in Sanjay Van Colony and Dhalli linked to the same project. The CPI(M) said some buildings had been declared unsafe, agricultural land had been damaged and several affected residents remained displaced without compensation or rehabilitation. It urged the government and NHAI to prioritise safety, relief and consultation, while calling for public opposition to construction practices it considers unscientific and illegal.