Sangharsh Samiti to raise concerns over twin tunnel construction in Shimla

Spread the news

Residents cite cracks, safety risks and compensation concerns over tunnel construction

Shimla:Construction of a twin tunnel under the National Highways Authority of India’s (NHAI) four-lane project has raised concerns among residents in several Shimla areas, with affected families alleging cracks in their homes and warning that continued construction could threaten the safety of hundreds of homes.

Residents from Sanjauli, Shanti Vihar, Bhatta Kufar, Dhalli and Chalaunthi have urged the government to intervene, saying they support development but should not have to ‘pay the price with their homes’.

The affected families alleged that they were not adequately informed about the potential impact of the tunnel construction before work began. They claimed that several houses have developed cracks and that many affected residents have yet to receive proper compensation.

Residents said some families have been staying away from their homes for nearly one and a half years because of safety concerns.

To raise the issue, affected residents and local people have formed the Twin Tunnel Sangharsh Samiti. The committee has highlighted concerns about structural damage, compensation, and the safety of residents living near the construction site.

Narendra Thakur, councillor from Bhatta Kufar in the Shimla Municipal Corporation, said the residents were not against development but wanted the authorities to ensure that construction did not put their homes and lives at risk.

The issue has also reached the Supreme Court, which constituted a high-powered committee to inspect the NHAI project in Shimla. The committee visited several affected areas and interacted with residents to assess the situation and hear their concerns.

The affected families said the committee assured them it would submit its findings to the High Court. After the inspection, residents said they hoped the authorities would take steps to protect their homes and address their concerns.

The residents have sought government intervention and a permanent solution to the problems arising from the tunnel construction, along with appropriate compensation for affected families.