Two lanes, 37 km long Kullu-Manali National Highway (NH-03) is being renovated extensively to improve road conditions and ensure safe, easy travel. The project of Rs 20.97 crore currently on progress is aimed at strengthening the contact between Kullu and Manali, especially in flood-stricken and damaged areas.
The main task involves laying coal tar and sealing 13 km cracks on 8.5 km spoiled sections. The project started from Gammon Bridge, Ramshila, where the work of bituminous concrete is going on. To promote the long-term stability of the highway, important infrastructure such as reesterfacing as well as drains, breast walls and R walls is being constructed. PCC drains are also being constructed rapidly in many places.
To improve traffic safety, the project involves installing signboards, speed breakers and protective walls. These enrichments are expected to promote tourism, improve traffic security and ensure smooth journey for both residents and visitors.
With the monsoon season approaching, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has deployed additional machinery- JCB, tipper, crate wire and excavation equipment to avoid delay in work and ensure safety of workers. In addition, a proposal of Rs 7.33 crore has been made for laying coal tar on an additional 4.5 km stake, which is pending until the approval is received.
NHAI resident engineer Ashok Chauhan confirmed the allocation of Rs 20.97 crore by the central government for the upgrade and said that the team is working round the clock to complete the work as much as possible before the monsoon intensifies.
