Landslide Cripples Pathankot-Mandi Highway: Locals Blame Road Widening
A massive landslide near Bhali on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, completely blocked the Pathankot-Mandi National Highway, causing major traffic disruptions for several hours. Authorities swiftly implemented diversions to manage the heavy congestion.
Local residents voiced strong concerns, directly attributing the landslide to the ongoing four-laning of the highway. They claimed that the construction work destabilised the already fragile hillside.
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) deployed teams to clear the debris. The highway was reopened later in the evening. However, authorities advised against unnecessary travel on this stretch, citing ongoing instability risks.
This incident highlights the urgent need for a thorough review of the highway expansion project’s environmental impact assessment. The safety of commuters and the preservation of the fragile Himalayan ecosystem must be paramount in all such large-scale infrastructure projects. The Bhali landslide serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of neglecting these vital considerations.
