CPI(M) Leader Tikender Singh Panwar Demands Accountability from NHAI Officials for Shimla-Chandigarh Road Safety

Traffic congestion on the Shimla-Chandigarh road in Himachal Pradesh's Solan district was caused by shooting stones and falling debris. This prompted CPIM leader Tikender Singh Panwar to demand accountability from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). He urged the police to hold NHAI officials responsible for what he termed as criminal neglect.

In a letter addressed to the Superintendent of Police in Solan, Panwar highlighted an earlier complaint filed in July 2023. He expressed frustration that despite raising the issue two years ago, no significant action had been taken. The former deputy mayor of Shimla Municipal Corporation insisted that the complaint should have led to proactive and scientifically sound construction work by the authorities.

NHAI's Responsibility and Investigation

Panwar emphasised that the NHAI is capable of constructing highways in the challenging Himalayan terrain. He reiterated his demand for accountability, stating that officials should face consequences for their negligence. He called for a fresh investigation to determine their culpability, focusing on economic losses suffered by people and physical harm to commuters.

In July 2023, Panwar filed a complaint against both the NHAI and the company responsible for executing the Parwanoo-Solan four-laning project. He stressed the need for an assessment to ascertain whether the negligence was due to circumstances or deliberate connivance.

Impact on Local Communities

Panwar noted that since the project's inception, over 60 incidents of landslides and shooting stones have been reported. These incidents have resulted in loss of life, property damage, and traffic disruptions. He pointed out that such occurrences are frequent because hills are cut vertically, causing significant hardships for local residents.

Farmers in particular face challenges as they struggle to transport apples and other produce to markets, leading to financial losses. Panwar highlighted these ongoing issues as evidence of the need for immediate action and accountability from those responsible.

The situation underscores the importance of addressing infrastructure challenges in mountainous regions. Ensuring safety and minimising disruptions are crucial for both local communities and travellers using these roads.

With inputs from PTI