Mandi-Pathankot highway project phase-II approved by NHAI

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) approved the second phase of construction of the four-lane project of the Pathankot-Mandi between 32 miles and Rajol in the district of Kangra. For the project’s second phase global bids had been opened yesterday at the NHAI headquarters, New Delhi. The project valued at Rs 678 crore was awarded to Gawar Construction Company Private Limited, a Gurugram-based firm. The work for Phase 1 of the project had already been awarded. NHAI Project Director, Anil Sen said that the land acquisition for Phase 2 had reached the final stage, which was among the conditions for the bidding process execution. He said that the decision of the NHAI was a major achievement for the early completion of the four-lane strategic project worth Rs 8,000 crore, which has been delayed since 2017. The company will soon start construction after getting clearances from the forest and environment departments. According to a project report, the width of the road now will be approximately 35 m and 60 m, which depends on the land availability. A bypass of 2.5 km will be constructed at Rait to ensure there is dislocation of the market or human settlements. Alongside, 11 bridges will also be constructed. The disbursement of compensation will also start soon. The four-lane road of 219 km is among the strategic projects that link Pathankot with Leh, Ladakh, and the other forward areas. The centre aims to complete the project at the earliest considering defense requirements. Image Source