Shimla-Kalka NH-5 temporarily closed for repair near Chakimod
The National Highway Authority of India decided to shut down the Parwanoo-Dharmpur National Highway No-5 this afternoon for a few hours.
A police tweet made by the Solan SP said that National Highway No. 5 (NH-5) would remain closed between 1100 hrs to 1300 hrs today for essential maintenance at Chakimod near Dharmpur. The repair work continues on the Hindustan Tibet National Highway suffered massive damage due to a landslide following heavy rainfall on August 12.
Vehicular traffic is moving at a snail’s pace in the Four lanes since the major portion of the road is caving in requiring frequent maintenance and clearing of debris.
The National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) has been actively involved in the ongoing repair and restoration efforts following the landslide that caused a section of the road to cave near Chakimod, between Parwanoo and Dharampur in the Solan district. The damage was extensive, leading to a complete washout of a stretch of the highway.
Although a temporary solution allowed partial traffic movement after the incident, comprehensive repair and restoration work is still underway. The closure of NH-5 today is a necessary step to ensure the safety and integrity of the highway amid ongoing repair work. Commuters are advised to plan their journeys accordingly and use alternative routes during the specified closure period. Local authorities and NHAI continue to work diligently to restore NH-3 to full functionality, addressing the concerns raised by the community and ensuring the safety of all road users.
Noteworthy here that the Former Deputy Mayor of Shimla, Tikender Singh Panwar, has taken a stand against the perceived negligence in the construction of the highway. He has lodged a First Information Report (FIR), asserting that both NHAI and the construction company failed to address the situation adequately, which led to severe damage and disruption. However, no action has been noted through the authorities so far, in the matter.
