Dangerous road conditions on Pathankot-Mandi Highway
A severely damaged section of the Pathankot-Mandi National Highway near Thakurdwara in Kangra district is leading to frequent accidents, traffic jams, and injuries to commuters. The worst affected area lies between Thakurdwara and Kalu Di Hatti, adjacent to a petrol station, where the carriageway has deteriorated badly and is filled with potholes. Local commuters report that the road condition has worsened over several months, making travel increasingly hazardous, particularly during the ongoing monsoon season.
Narrow bridge called a 'death trap'
A narrow bridge near Agro Petrol Station, described by residents as a "death trap," has compounded the problem. According to locals, at least five people have died in accidents on that bridge over the past five years. Although residents have repeatedly demanded widening of the bridge and improved safety measures, authorities have not taken substantial action.
Patchwork repairs insufficient
Residents and daily commuters note that while some damaged portions of the highway have been repaired, several other stretches remain hazardous. Deep potholes on both sides of the road make driving dangerous, especially for two-wheelers and small vehicles. They allege that authorities often fill potholes with soil as a temporary fix, which gets washed away within a day after rainfall.
Excavated soil and drainage issues worsen situation
The problem is aggravated by heaps of excavated soil lining the roadside. During heavy rain, muddy water flows onto the highway, creating slippery conditions and reducing visibility. Local residents say roadside drainage channels are choked with mud, stones, and debris, preventing proper drainage and causing waterlogging on the road. They have repeatedly urged authorities to find a permanent solution, such as concrete surfacing, instead of patchwork, but have not received a satisfactory response.
NHAI and NHIDCL responsibility transfer
An officer of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) stated that a proposal for constructing a concrete road had been forwarded to higher authorities. However, before a decision could be made, the highway's responsibility was transferred from NHAI to the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL). Rajeev Sharma, Executive Engineer of the National Highways Division, said that funds for the national highway are no longer routed through his department following the transfer to NHAI.
Appeal for immediate and durable repairs
With the monsoon intensifying, residents and commuters have appealed to authorities to undertake immediate and durable repair work, widen the accident-prone bridge, and improve drainage facilities to prevent further accidents and ensure the safety of thousands of daily road users.
