Concerns Raised Over National Highway-003 Construction in Mandi

MLA Anil Sharma Meets Union Minister Nitin Gadkari

Munish Sood
Mandi

On Thursday, Anil Sharma, the MLA for Mandi Sadar, engaged with Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, in New Delhi to discuss various pressing issues related to the ongoing construction of National Highway-003, specifically the Mandi–Kotli/Kadkoh segment.

Sharma informed Gadkari about the current state of affairs along the highway, emphasizing that numerous projects remain unfinished, causing significant inconvenience for local residents due to the subpar quality and execution of the ongoing work.

Key concerns highlighted by the MLA included the need for improvements to sharp and hazardous bends, which continue to pose serious risks for accidents. He also pointed out the lack of adequate drainage systems, missing retaining and breast walls in vulnerable areas, and insufficient access roads and pedestrian pathways for homes affected by land acquisition.

Additionally, Sharma raised issues regarding inadequate road safety measures and the absence of planned bus shelters along the highway stretch.

He underscored that these matters are crucial for the safety, mobility, and daily convenience of the Mandi Sadar constituency's residents, necessitating prompt action.

Sharma also urged the Union minister to allocate an extra ₹70 crore to expedite the completion of the ongoing works. Following their discussion, the statement indicated that this amount was sanctioned and released immediately.

Gadkari acknowledged the concerns raised about the residents and assured Sharma that the issues would be thoroughly reviewed and appropriate measures would be implemented.

This meeting occurs amidst ongoing worries regarding the execution of the highway project, with residents advocating for the swift completion of outstanding works and necessary corrections at accident-prone areas.