The much-awaited work to construct the Shimla bypass and widening of the Kaithlighat-Shakral section of National Highway-5 kick-started from Kaithlighat.
The work has been awarded to SP Singla and Company by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) which is executing the four-laning work of this highway. The tender for this work was awarded in July 2022. Since then, formalities like forest clearances were being sought.
Regional Officer NHAI Abdul Basit said the construction of the Shimla bypass would rid the city of frequent accidents, pollution and traffic jams occurring inside the city. Besides, the tourists going to Kufri, Narkanda and Rampur will no longer have to pass through the city. The completion of this project would also lead to expansion of the city.
Basit informed that according to the agreement, this project is supposed to be completed by April 20, 2026. The company entrusted the task has, however, been given a target to complete it six months prior to the scheduled date to facilitate the public.The Regional Officer expressed gratitude to the state government and the CM for speedily removing obstacles that were delaying the project and cooperation in seeking forest clearance.