New Tunnel Stretch on Kiratpur-Manali Highway Set to Open Soon

The Dyor-Hanogi tunnel stretch on the Kiratpur-Manali highway is poised to open within four days, following a successful trial run. This project aims to ease traffic congestion and enhance connectivity to Kullu-Manali. With two tunnels initially opening, the infrastructure improvements are expected to significantly benefit commuters. Former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur and NHAI officials have confirmed the strategic importance of this development, which includes repairs to tunnel portals damaged during the monsoon. The project is part of a larger initiative to bolster infrastructure in the region.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 7, 2026, 18:38 IST

Upcoming Traffic Flow on Kiratpur-Manali Highway

Munish Sood
Mandi
The Dyor-Hanogi tunnel segment of the Kiratpur-Manali four-lane highway is anticipated to commence traffic operations within the next four days, following a successful trial run conducted on Monday. This development is a crucial advancement in alleviating traffic congestion and enhancing connectivity to the Kullu-Manali region.

The trial run was overseen by NHAI Board Member Vipnesh Sharma, with former Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister and current Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur also present to review the project and its preparations for the upcoming opening.

This Dyor-Hanogi section is part of the strategically vital Pandoh Bypass-Takoli project, which has an estimated budget of ₹2,600 crore and encompasses ten tunnels, four of which are located between Dyor and Hanogi.

Initially, two tunnels will be opened for public use: one measuring approximately 2.8 kilometers and the other around 650 meters. Additionally, a bridge near Khotinalla, which is 45 meters high and 140 meters long, connects this tunnel section.

The tunnel portals at Hanogi, which sustained damage during the monsoon season, have been repaired at a cost of about ₹50 crore. NHAI officials indicated that the remaining work primarily involves safety measures and is expected to be finalized before traffic is permitted.

Vipnesh Sharma emphasized the strategic significance of the project and confirmed that traffic would be operational within four days, pending the completion of the remaining safety checks.

Thakur remarked that the opening of this tunnel stretch would greatly benefit commuters heading to Kullu-Manali, making their journey safer and more efficient. He also acknowledged the efforts of the Centre and NHAI in accelerating infrastructure development following the natural disasters that impacted the area.

The inspection was attended by Dharampur MLA Purna Chand Thakur, NHAI Regional Officer Colonel Ajay Singh Bargoti, Project Director Varun Chari, along with representatives from Shapoorji Pallonji, Afcons, Gawar Construction, and Bharat Construction.