Kaithlighat to Dhalli Distance Slashed by 15 km with Shimla Bypass Project: Governor Commends NHAI

Kaithlighat to Dhalli Distance Slashed by 15 km with Shimla Bypass Project: Governor Commends NHAI

The Shimla Bypass project, featuring 10 tunnels and 27 bridges, will reduce the Kaithlighat to Dhalli distance by 15 km, saving an hour of travel time and preserving over 22,000 trees. Project completion is expected by March 2027.

Solan, August 21: Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla visited the Shimla Bypass Tunnel-1 Portal-2 near Kaithlighat in Solan district today to inspect the ongoing construction and review progress. The ambitious 28.5 km Shimla Bypass project, which aims to enhance connectivity and ease travel in the region, is set to significantly reduce travel time and distance.

The Shimla Bypass, comprising two phases, will feature 10 tunnels covering a combined length of 10.6 km, along with 27 major bridges and viaducts. Governor Shukla highlighted that upon completion, the travel distance between Kaithlighat and Dhalli will be reduced by approximately 15 km, cutting nearly an hour off the journey. The project is expected to improve road safety, enhance fuel efficiency, and reduce air pollution, all while contributing to environmental conservation.

The Governor commended the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) for its environmentally conscious approach. Notably, the construction of these tunnels will prevent the felling of approximately 22,500 trees and help mitigate soil erosion. This environmentally friendly initiative will also reduce the carbon footprint in the region, ensuring smoother and safer travel in the challenging hilly terrain.

During the visit, NHAI Regional Officer Abdul Basit provided detailed information on the project. He shared that Tunnel-1, spanning 1,410 meters in both phases, is expected to be completed by January 2025 at a cost of Rs. 90 crore. The entire four-lane project from Kaithlighat to Dhalli, with an estimated cost of Rs. 4,800 crore, is anticipated to be completed by March 2027. This project promises to be a game-changer for regional connectivity, boosting the local economy and making travel to Shimla smoother and faster.

Governor Shukla, along with Secretary to the Governor Rajesh Sharma, Deputy Commissioner Solan Manmohan Sharma, Superintendent of Police Gaurav Singh, and other NHAI officials, closely monitored the progress and expressed optimism about the timely completion of the project.

This infrastructure development aligns with the state’s vision for sustainable growth and eco-friendly initiatives, creating a positive impact on both the environment and the people.

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