The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has launched an emergency operation to restore critical stretches of the Kullu–Manali highway (NH-21) following severe flood-induced damage. About nine heavy construction machinery units are slated for airlifting to two inaccessible points on the route, aimed at expediting the restoration work and reestablishing connectivity to Manali.
Currently, around 12 full sections of the highway have been completely washed away, with five additional segments suffering partial damage. In a show of urgency, approximately 70 machines have already been deployed on site, with another 20 in transit to strengthen the restoration drive.
With meteorological agencies issuing a red alert for two more days, airlifting operations stand postponed until the skies clear, NHAI officials revealed. The agency has sought assistance from the Himachal Pradesh government, which will forward the airlift requisition to defense authorities. Meanwhile, funds have been sanctioned to maintain an alternate left-bank road as a temporary lifeline to Manali.
NHAI’s approach is being executed “on a war footing,” underscoring its commitment to swiftly repair this vital Himalayan lifeline and mitigate further travel disruption.
