Kiratpur-Nerchowk highway set to open in June

25 May 2023 CW Team

The Kiratpur-Nerchowk section of the Kiratpur-Manali national highway is set to be opened by the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI). However, there is a lack of necessary footpaths, underpasses, and over-bridges in many areas of the new highway. The NHAI has set a deadline of June 30 for completing the Kiratpur-Nerchowk section and plans to allow vehicle movement on a trial basis in the coming weeks.

According to residents, the highway will undoubtedly reduce travel time, but it will also create problems for them as there is still a lot of work needed for public movement. Rakesh Kumar, a resident of Jhanduta in Bilaspur district, expressed concerns about the absence of footpaths, over-bridges, and underpasses in many areas. He mentioned that once the highway is fully opened, it will be difficult for children to walk to their schools located near the highways.

Kumar emphasised the importance of over-bridges, especially for residents with farming land on both sides of the highway. He stated that the NHAI should construct underpasses and foot over-bridges along the entire stretch of the highway to ensure free movement for the public. Kumar also pointed out that the highway has disrupted many pathways, including those leading to cremation grounds. He criticised the NHAI for rushing to open the highway without considering the problems residents would face. Additionally, he mentioned the lack of toilet facilities on the highway.

The local shopkeepers and traders of Bilaspur are also concerned about the opening of the highway. The Bilaspur Traders Association recently held a meeting and concluded that over 1000 shopkeepers would be affected by the highway's opening.

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