Landslide Causes Tunnel Collapse in Shimla; No Injuries Reported

A landslide outside a tunnel in Shimla caused a collapse, blocking the tunnel’s entrance with debris. Thankfully, no one was hurt, as construction had been paused and workers and machinery were evacuated in time.

Initial reports suggest that the loose ground above the tunnel, destabilized by a muck dumping site from Shimla city, led to the collapse. NHAI officials explained that while efforts were being made to reinforce the tunnel portal, heavy rains triggered a landslide that overwhelmed the structure before the work could be completed.

“The landslide started outside the tunnel, causing the collapse. Thankfully, no one was injured as the site had been evacuated in time. Relief teams are currently working to clear the debris and stabilize the area,” said the official.

This incident highlights the risks associated with construction projects in Shimla, especially in regions prone to landslides and heavy rainfall. The local administration is closely monitoring the situation and reviewing safety protocols to prevent such occurrences in the future.

The tunnel is part of a broader infrastructure initiative in Shimla, which includes the construction of a four-lane highway from Malyana to Chalonthi. This project aims to improve traffic flow on the busy Kalka-Shimla route significantly. However, the recent collapse underscores the challenges of building in the region’s difficult terrain and unpredictable weather conditions.