Traffic Disruption on Himachal Highway Due to Nalati Bridge Collapse

Significant Traffic Issues Following Bridge Collapse

Vikal Sharma

SULAH (Kangra): The Nalati bridge, located near Sulah on the Palampur-Pathankot-Mandi National Highway, has partially collapsed, leading to major disruptions in traffic flow on one of Himachal Pradesh's busiest routes, as reported by officials on Sunday.

The highway serves as a vital link between Pathankot and Mandi, connecting key towns including Dharamshala, Kangra, Chandigarh, and Delhi. It is heavily utilized by commuters, buses, and freight vehicles on a daily basis. The structural failure was triggered by a section of the bridge sinking due to heavy rainfall.

In light of safety concerns, authorities have limited traffic to one vehicle at a time, raising alarms about the potential for further collapses or serious accidents during the ongoing monsoon season.

Repair efforts are currently in progress. An official from the Public Works Department stated, “The team is working diligently to lift and reinforce the damaged section, with the goal of restoring two-way traffic within two weeks.”

Despite the risks, officials commended the swift actions taken by repair teams to alleviate the disruption on this essential transport route.

Further evaluations will be conducted to assess the structural integrity of the remaining bridge span. Travelers are advised to exercise caution until full restoration is achieved.