Road Collapse Near NHAI Tunnel Construction Site in Shimla Triggers Safety Alarm
A significant portion of the main road near a tunnelling site on the Dhalli-Chalunthi-IGMC road in Sanjauli, Shimla, caved in on Tuesday, raising serious safety concerns among residents and authorities. The incident occurred in close proximity to an ongoing National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) tunnel construction project, prompting immediate administrative action and local backlash.
Incident Details and Immediate Response
According to reports, the road collapse resulted in a heavy construction machine falling into the caved-in section, exacerbating the situation. Following the incident, the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (Rural) swiftly arrived at the spot to assess the damage and coordinate response efforts. After a thorough evaluation, the administration decided to completely shut down traffic on the bypass road as a precautionary measure to prevent any potential accidents or further deterioration.
Local Concerns and Blame on NHAI
The road cave-in has sparked intense criticism from local residents, who are pointing fingers at the NHAI for what they perceive as sub-standard tunnelling work. Many in the community have expressed fears about the safety of infrastructure projects in the area, citing this incident as evidence of compromised construction quality. The collapse has not only disrupted daily commute but also heightened anxieties about the long-term reliability of such critical developments.
NHAI's Explanation and Remedial Actions
When contacted, an NHAI spokesperson provided insights into the underlying causes and ongoing measures. "A pit has been observed along the Dhalli-Chalunthi-IGMC road above Tunnel 5," the spokesperson stated. "Cracks appeared in a nearby building on January 9, which prompted planned remedial actions, including grouting and shotcreting. However, these measures were delayed due to local objections."
The spokesperson further explained that the acquisition process for the affected building has been initiated in the public interest to address structural concerns. Regarding the road collapse, the official attributed it to persistent rainfall and snowfall, compounded by the delay in remedial work, which weakened the road shoulder above the tunnel portal. "To safeguard road users, NHAI has promptly commenced backfilling with suitable material," the spokesperson added. "Works are currently in progress and expected to be completed shortly."
Broader Implications and Safety Measures
This incident underscores the challenges faced in infrastructure development in hilly regions like Shimla, where geological and weather conditions can pose significant risks. It highlights the need for:
- Enhanced monitoring of construction sites to prevent such occurrences.
- Timely implementation of safety protocols and remedial measures.
- Better communication between authorities and local communities to address concerns proactively.
As the NHAI works to rectify the situation, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of residents and restoring normalcy to the affected area. The administration continues to monitor the site closely, with updates expected as the backfilling operations progress.
