After Bhattakufar, Tunnel construction again raises ‘Red Flags’ in Shimla
Photo used for indicative purpose only
Shimla, Jan 10,
Fresh safety concerns have emerged over large-scale tunnelling in the Shimla region after cracks developed in two residential buildings and a hotel in Chalaunthi, a thickly populated locality on the city’s outskirts, late Friday night.
The damage was reported around 10 pm on January 9, forcing the district administration to evacuate all occupants from the affected structures as a preventive step. Officials confirmed that the evacuated commercial unit includes ABC Bar and Restaurant. No casualties were reported.
Visible fissures appeared on walls and floors of the buildings located directly above an under-construction four-lane tunnel on the Chalaunthi bypass, triggering fears of structural instability. Following the incident, authorities also noticed cracks developing on the Sanjauli–Dhali bypass road, leading to the immediate suspension of vehicular traffic on the stretch.
Police personnel were deployed at the site to restrict movement and prevent any mishap, while commuters travelling towards Upper Shimla, Sunni and Karsog were advised to use alternative routes until further notice.
Residents of the area have squarely blamed the ongoing tunnel construction for ground vibrations and soil movement, alleging that warning signs were evident but ignored despite repeated complaints to authorities and the executing agency.
The incident has revived public anxiety, coming close on the heels of the Bhattakufar sinkhole episode, which had already raised serious questions about the safety and monitoring of underground construction projects in Shimla’s fragile hill terrain.
The district administration has ordered a detailed technical inspection of the affected zone and sought comprehensive reports from the construction agency. Officials maintained that public safety would override project timelines, and further action would be taken based on expert recommendations.
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