Shimla, September 5, 2026. A media delegation from West Bengal, led by Press Information Bureau (PIB), Kolkata, visited major National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) infrastructure projects in Himachal Pradesh as part of an exposure visit to understand the impact of large-scale infrastructure development on connectivity, travel time and regional mobility.

During the visit, the delegation was briefed about the development of the NH-3 tunnel corridor connecting Mandi, Kullu and Manali. The corridor incorporates multiple tunnels and major bridges through the challenging mountainous terrain and improve the efficiency and safety of road connectivity. The Manali–Takoli section, connecting Kullu with Manali, was highlighted as an important component of the corridor.

The delegation was informed that the project includes 11 major tunnels and 11 major bridges, besides the Mandi bypass, which has helped reduce travel time by around three hours on the concerned stretch. The bypass and tunnel-based alignment have enabled traffic to avoid congested urban stretches, including in the Pandoh area.

The Pandoh tunnel, with a length of approximately 2.8 km, is among the longest tunnels in the corridor and is currently under construction. Once completed, it is expected to further improve traffic movement and reduce travel time through the challenging Pandoh section.

The delegation was informed that 21 tunnels are currently functional, while detailed project reports (DPRs) for eight additional tunnel projects are under preparation. Collectively, the tunnel-based infrastructure is expected to reduce the overall travel distance by about 47 km and save approximately four to five hours of journey time.

NHAI officials also briefed the delegation on the use of New Austrian Tunnelling Method (NATM) technology for tunnel construction. The technology facilitates flexible and systematic tunnel excavation and support based on the prevailing geological conditions, which is particularly relevant for infrastructure development in the Himalayan terrain.

The visit provided the West Bengal media delegation with first-hand exposure to the engineering solutions being adopted to overcome geographical challenges and strengthen road connectivity in Himachal Pradesh.

SS/NK

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