The strategically vital Pathankot-Mandi National Highway project in Himachal Pradesh has achieved a major milestone. Excavation work for the bypass tunnels designed to divert traffic away from Mandi city has reached 60 percent completion. The entire infrastructure project is scheduled to be fully operational by September 2027, promising to significantly ease travel between popular destinations like Kullu, Manali, and Pathankot.
Construction Updates and Milestones
Providing details on the development, RCS Rawat, General Manager of Bharat Construction Company, which is executing the project, shared these updates following the Vishwakarma Puja celebrations. The construction of the bypass involves two tunnels with a combined length of 3.5 kilometers. Commissioned by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), the construction work on this crucial bypass initiative commenced in March 2025.
The contractor and project managers are making concerted efforts to ensure that the remaining 40 percent of the work is completed well within the designated timeline. The execution team is highly optimistic about delivering the completed project by the target date of September 2027, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free transit experience for commuters traversing these high-traffic routes.
Religious Observances and Community Support
The progress update was shared on the auspicious occasion of Vishwakarma Puja. Rawat, alongside other company officials, staff, and construction workers, participated in traditional rituals, including a ceremonial Havan. After performing the Purnahuti, the team performed the Aarti of Lord Vishwakarma, praying for the safe and timely completion of the infrastructure initiative. Once these bypass tunnels are commissioned, they will offer immense relief to local residents in Mandi by reducing city congestion, while also providing a seamless bypass route for tourists and daily commuters heading towards Pathankot, Mandi, Kullu, or Manali.
