Shimla, Sept 1,
Life in Manali and its surrounding areas is set to remain difficult for days ahead, as the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has admitted that connectivity on the crucial Kullu–Manali highway (NH-21) cannot be restored quickly despite round-the-clock efforts.
According to NHAI, twelve stretches of the highway have been completely washed away and five more partially damaged due to relentless rains and flooding. Two sites near Bindu Dhank remain totally inaccessible because of high water levels, forcing the authority to plan airlifting of heavy construction machinery once weather conditions allow. Around 70 machines are already deployed, with 20 more en route to the disaster-hit section.
Officials also revealed that funds are being provided to the state government to keep an alternate left-bank road functional. While this ensures some form of connectivity, the diversion is narrow, difficult to negotiate, and unsuitable for heavy transport — meaning both commuters and goods carriers will face arduous journeys.
The highway closure has struck at the very core of Manali’s economy. September is both a tourist season and a critical harvest window for apple growers, and other vegetables growers and traders. Tourists headed for Lahaul & Spiti, Ladakh via Manali are already cancelling or altering their itineraries, dealing a blow to hotels, restaurants, and taxi operators. Farmers, meanwhile, are forced to move their produce through longer detours, escalating costs and increasing the risk of spoilage.
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“Getting apples out of the valley has become a nightmare. The alternate routes, so everything takes more time and money,” said a grower from Kullu.
Local hoteliers too expressed concern that the prolonged suspension of the highway will further dent revenues already hit by erratic weather and landslides this season.
NHAI maintains that the restoration is being undertaken on a “war footing,” but the scale of destruction suggests that the main highway may remain suspended for an extended period. For Manali’s residents and businesses, this means life will not return to normal anytime soon.
About the Author
The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.
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