Himachal Pradesh High Court Pulls Up NHAI Over Delay in Four-Laning Work
The Himachal Pradesh High Court, comprising Hon’ble Chief Justice G.S. Sandhawalia and Hon’ble Justice Jiya Lal Bhardwaj, came down heavily on the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) for the inordinate delay and poor maintenance of the Parwanoo–Solan–Kaithlighat–Shimla four-laning project.
The Bench was hearing Court on its Own Motion vs. NHAI & Ors., clubbed with CWPIL No. 45 of 2025 (Uttansh Monga vs. State of H.P. & Ors.), in which Advocate Ganesh Barowalia appeared for petitioner and assisted the Court in examining the current road conditions and compliance of its earlier directions.
The Court noted that despite NHAI’s claim of substantial completion, the project was delayed by over six years. It observed that several stretches, particularly near Kandaghat, Datyar, and Chakki, were still in pitiable condition, causing hardship to commuters.
The Bench directed the State Government and NHAI to complete pending rectification and slope protection works within 10 days, failing which the restriction on toll collection at Sanwara Toll Plaza would continue. The Court also stressed that maintenance of roadside drains and removal of debris from hill slopes were essential to prevent further road damage.
Observing the proactive assistance provided by Advocate Ganesh Barowalia, the Court appreciated the valuable inputs placed before it as Amicus Curiae in ensuring accountability in highway construction and maintenance across the State.
The matter has been listed for further hearing on November 11, 2025.
