Mountains Are Speaking: Manali Highway Collapse Sparks Outcry Over Negligent Planning, Gadkari Blames Faulty DPRs
The scenic Manali–Chandigarh highway, once a lifeline for travelers and locals alike, now lies in ruins—torn apart by relentless landslides and floods. As Himachal Pradesh reels from the aftermath, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has pointed fingers at a deeper, systemic failure: flawed planning and careless execution.
Speaking at a FICCI conference, Gadkari didn’t mince words. He accused companies of preparing Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) without ever setting foot on the ground—relying instead on Google Maps and desk research. “This is fraud,” he said, highlighting how such negligence leads to roads that crumble under the weight of the mountains they’re meant to traverse.
The Manali–Chandigarh highway, built at enormous cost, has seen entire stretches washed away. Gadkari emphasized that despite spending thousands of crores, the roads are no match for the Himalayan terrain. “Lives are being lost every year. Yet, we’re not learning,” he warned.
He proposed a shift in strategy—more tunnels, better geological studies, and a dedicated team to oversee construction in fragile zones. He also raised concerns about retired officials influencing tender processes through private firms, calling for greater accountability.
Himachal Pradesh minister Anirudh Singh welcomed Gadkari’s candor. “This is what we’ve been saying all along,” he said. “The #JusticeForHimachal campaign is finally being heard. Now, we need action—real reform, accountability, and relief for those who’ve suffered.”
The recent monsoon has only deepened the crisis. Landslides have stranded thousands, severing access to Kullu and Manali. The repeated collapses are not just engineering failures—they’re a wake-up call.
As the mountains continue to crumble, the question remains: will we finally listen?
