The Himachal Pradesh High Court has taken a serious view of the prolonged delay in completing the Kiratpur-Nerchowk-Manali highway project and summoned the managing director of the concessionaire company to explain the timeline for its completion.
Court's Observations on Hardship
A division bench comprising Chief Justice Gurmeet Singh Sandhawalia and Justice Bipin Chander Negi noted that people traveling to Manali have faced difficulties for over five years due to incomplete and damaged stretches of the highway. The court pointed out that despite multiple settlement agreements and extensions, the concessionaire failed to meet the timelines set in the agreement signed in August 2017. The original completion date was September 2021.
PILs and Affidavits
The court was hearing two Public Interest Litigations concerning the condition and delayed execution of different sections of National Highway 21. During the proceedings, affidavits were filed by officials from the state Public Works Department, Mandi district administration, and the National Highways Authority of India.
According to the affidavit from the superintending engineer, the road stretch between Deod and Hanogi Pul, and another from Hanogi Pul to Dawada, are being maintained by the state PWD after receiving repair funds from NHAI. The court was informed that parts of the road were severely damaged during unprecedented rainfall in July, August, and September 2025. Although temporary restoration, metalling, and tarring have been completed, photographs presented to the court showed that several patches remain not fully roadworthy.
Permanent Restoration Work
The court was told that permanent restoration costing nearly Rs 5.9 crore is underway, but only about Rs 2.7 crore has been released by NHAI. Approximately 70% of the work is completed, including the construction of six retaining walls, and efforts are being made to finish the remaining work before the onset of the monsoon.
Sundernagar Bypass Issue
The Mandi deputy commissioner submitted an affidavit regarding the Sundernagar bypass stretch, where culverts were allegedly blocked by locals using stones and mud to protect adjoining fields. The obstruction has been removed, and drainage channels restored. The district administration stressed the need for regular inspection of culverts and roadside drains before the upcoming monsoon season.
Tunnel Works Dispute
The court also examined the status of tunnel works under the project. While the concessionaire claimed that several twin tunnels and bridge works were completed and operational, NHAI disputed these claims and sought time to file a detailed counter affidavit. The matter has been posted for further hearing on June 22.
