SHIMLA/MANDI: The vital Chandigarh-Kiratpur-Mandi- Kullu National Highway has been reopened for traffic partially by the National Highway Authority of India from Pandoh.
This restoration is a major relief to both the local hotel industry and apple farmers in Kullu and Manali, where the apple season is already underway. But the slides at Kencho Morh pose constant problem due to which the traffic was being plied from Katauli side till the hazard stops and NHAI widen the road width.
Bikers and adventure seekers have already made their forays towards Kinnaur from Shimla after the Chandigarh-Shimla highway was restored for all types of traffic last week.
The National Highway Authority of India worked tirelessly around the clock, deploying manpower and machinery to fix the damaged stretch between Pandoh and 16 Mile near Mandi.
Just two days ago, the state Public Works Department (PWD) reopened the crucial Mandi to Kullu and Manali route via the Kataula, restoring some connectivity.
However, the full recovery of the main national highway from Mandi to Pandoh marks a significant achievement as the entire stretch was washed away at Pandoh last week.
This timely restoration is particularly beneficial for the hotel industry as the recent monsoon signs of abating have provided a window for the NHAI and state authorities to accelerate recovery efforts in the flood-affected Himachal Pradesh.
Moreover, the reopening of the Kalka Shimla National Highway from Chakkimor has not only facilitated the transportation of apples from Shimla Districts to markets in Panchkula, Chandigarh, and Delhi but has also raised hopes of reviving tourism.
The situation in Himachal Pradesh has been normalizing over the past three to four days.
However, local hoteliers are criticizing the mainstream media, especially Delhi's television media, for projecting a negative image of the state.
They argue that even though the situation has improved and losses have been substantial, the media's portrayal is not aligned with the current reality.
This restoration not only brings relief to the local economy but also emphasizes the resilience of the state in the face of challenges.