Travelling between Kullu and Mandi by road often means getting stuck in traffic. But now, things are about to change. Two new tunnels, Deod Tunnel (T4-01) and Hanogi Tunnel (T4-02), have been opened to reduce traffic congestion and cut travel time on one of the busiest mountain routes. Read on to learn more!
How Can Two New Tunnels Affect Travel Between Kullu-Manali & Mandi?
As part of the Kiratpur-Manali four-lane highway project, two new tunnels, Deod Tunnel (T4-01) and Hanogi Tunnel (T4-02), opened on Friday. As per The Indian Express, the two tunnels will help motorists travelling between Mandi and Kullu avoid a difficult stretch of the highway. The Mandi-Kullu journey, which can take around two hours during heavy traffic, is expected to take about 60 minutes.
According to Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, the new tunnels will reduce the affected road stretch from six kilometres to around 3.5 kilometres. They will also help motorists avoid congestion near Jogni Mata Mandir, Deod and Hanogi.
How Long Are These Tunnels?
The Deod Tunnel is 2.8 kilometres long, while the Hanogi Tunnel is 650 metres long. According to The Indian Express, though these are twin-tube tunnels, authorities have initially opened one tube of each tunnel for traffic. The tunnels are connected by a 140-metre bridge near Khotinalla.
The tunnels underwent safety inspections before opening. Authorities also conducted a trial run on September 7. Himachal Pradesh NHAI Regional Officer Col Ajay Bargoti said that motorists will no longer need to travel through the approximately six-kilometre mountainous stretch. The Deod-Hanogi tunnels are part of the ₹4,465.94-crore four-laning project for the Pandoh Bypass-Takoli section. The project covers an 18.908-kilometre stretch.
How excited are you to travel between Mandi and Kullu? Tell us in the comments below!
Also Read: Sungal Tunnel Opens On Jammu-Poonch Road, Light Vehicles Allowed From 8 AM To 8 PM
Cover Image Courtesy: X/ @nitin_gadkari
FAQs
Which tunnels are now opened in Himachal Pradesh?
Two new tunnels opened in Himachal Pradesh are Deod Tunnel (T4-01) and Hanogi Tunnel (T4-02).
What will be the travel time between Mandi and Kull?
With two new tunnels, the travel time between Mandi and Kullu will cut to just 60 minutes.
How long are two new tunnels in Himachal?
Deod Tunnel is 2.8 kilometres long and the Hanogi Tunnel is 650 metres long.
