SHIMLA – In a significant intervention aimed at protecting Himachal Pradesh’s primary transit artery, the Himachal Pradesh High Court has issued a stern directive to the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). The court has ordered the immediate implementation of robust drainage management strategies along the Shimla-Kalka National Highway (NH-5) to prevent potential structural damage during the upcoming monsoon.
The directive comes as a preventive measure following past instances where inadequate drainage led to severe landslides and road sinking, particularly along the recently four-laned stretches of the highway.
Judicial Concern Over Infrastructure Integrity
A division bench, comprising Chief Justice Gurmeet Singh Sandhawalia and Justice Bipin Chander Negi, emphasized that blocked drains and stagnant water are the primary culprits behind highway erosion in hilly terrains. The court observed that without a seamless flow of rainwater, the heavy investments made into the state’s infrastructure remain at high risk.
The bench directed the NHAI to ensure:
- Regular Cleaning: All existing culverts and drains must be cleared of debris and silt before the first heavy showers.
- Strategic Precaution: Precautionary measures must be taken to ensure water does not accumulate on the road surface, which often seeps into the sub-base and weakens the bitumen.
Progress Report: Kandaghat Bypass and Major Bridges
During the hearing, the NHAI provided an updated timeline for several critical components of the highway project. A major highlight was the status of the Kandaghat bypass in Solan district. The NHAI informed the court that the construction of this bypass, along with a significant bridge near the Apollo Tyres showroom at Daunsi village, is on track for completion by November 2026.
These projects are expected to significantly reduce congestion in the Solan area and provide a safer route for heavy vehicles that currently navigate narrow city bottlenecks.
Weather-Induced Delays in Maintenance
The NHAI Project Director also addressed recent delays in maintenance work. The court was informed that intermittent rainfall since April 2026 has hampered the execution of “bituminous work” (tarring) on the Parwanoo-Solan section.
However, the NHAI provided a revised schedule for pending works:
- Datyar Stretch: Bituminous work is expected to be wrapped up by May 30, 2026.
- Chakki Moud: This vulnerable site, which has seen repeated landslides, is undergoing advanced stabilization. The installation of reinforced mesh and geosynthetic mats is scheduled for completion by June 30, 2026.
Addressing Local Obstructions and Contractor Accountability
The High Court also took note of administrative and social hurdles affecting the project. The NHAI reported that slope protection work at Kumarhada village had been forcibly stopped by local residents. Despite formal requests to the Solan district administration, the NHAI claimed that adequate assistance to resume work had not yet been provided.
Furthermore, the court expressed dissatisfaction with the pace of work near Deventure Hotel and the Solan-Kaithlighat section. A show-cause notice has been issued to a contractor for failing to begin the construction of a necessary retaining wall on the valley side at Berkhas village, despite the hillside protection being finished.
Lifeline of the State
The Shimla-Kalka highway serves as more than just a tourist path; it is the vital link for the state’s apple industry and a critical route for military movement toward the border. The High Court’s proactive stance highlights the urgency of maintaining this lifeline, especially as the state prepares for the unpredictable weather patterns often seen in July and August.
The matter has been listed for further hearing on June 18, 2026, by which time the NHAI is expected to file a compliance report regarding the drainage and slope stabilization works. For travelers and locals alike, the court’s oversight provides a glimmer of hope for a safer, more reliable commute through the Himalayan foothills this summer.
