Traffic Chaos on NH Due to Tunnel Leak at Shong-Tong Hydropower Project
Late Saturday night, traffic on the Reckong Peo-Rampur National Highway (NH) in Himachal Pradesh came to a standstill after a sudden water leakage from the under-construction Rali Adit Tunnel-2 of the Shong-Tong Hydropower Project in Kinnaur. The incident caused a massive outflow of debris, blocking the highway and leading to long traffic jams on both sides.
The mishap occurred around 10 p.m. at the tunnel site. Water mixed with debris gushed out onto the highway, creating a hazardous situation. Thankfully, all workers inside the tunnel were evacuated in time, preventing any casualties.
Local authorities responded swiftly by dispatching machinery to clear the road and diverting traffic via the Kadcham-Sheelti route to minimize disruption. Meanwhile, residents in the vicinity played a crucial role by alerting officials and assisting in initial response efforts.
Restoration of the highway is underway, and commuters are advised to use alternative routes until the debris is cleared. Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the leakage to prevent such incidents in the future.