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Traveling from Chandigarh to Manali has become much easier and faster with the construction of the Kiratpur-Manali Expressway. This newly built four-lane highway is part of National Highway 21 and is operated by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). The expressway is a crucial project that has not only shortened travel time but also improved road safety and infrastructure along the route.

Key Details of the Chandigarh-Manali Expressway

• Total Length: 197 km

• Total Cost: Rs. 1,818.47 crore (initially), later increased to Rs. 6,000 crore

• Number of Tunnels: 14

• Number of Bridges: 37

• Number of Toll Plazas: 3

• Construction Packages: 5

• Current Status: To be inaugurated on 15th June 2023

• Completion Date: August 2023

Major Benefits of the Chandigarh-Manali Expressway

The biggest advantage of the expressway is the reduction in travel distance. Previously, the journey from Kiratpur to Manali covered 232 km, but with the new road, it has been reduced to 195 km. This reduction has significantly cut down travel time between the two cities by approximately three hours.

Enhanced Road Safety and Traffic Flow

The construction of tunnels and bridges ensures a smooth flow of traffic, reducing the chances of accidents, landslides, and traffic congestion. The expressway is also equipped with medical facilities, CCTV cameras, vehicle speed displays, ambulance services, and video incident detection systems to ensure better safety for commuters.

Cost Savings for Travelers

With the new highway, travelers and transporters can save between Rs. 900 crore and Rs. 1,000 crore annually in fuel and maintenance costs. The road's modern design allows for uninterrupted movement, leading to less fuel consumption and lower vehicle wear and tear.

Better Connectivity & Medical Facilities

Apart from reducing travel time, the expressway also provides better access to medical facilities along the route. This is particularly beneficial in case of emergencies, as ambulance services and medical assistance are available throughout the journey.

How to Travel from Chandigarh to Manali on the Expressway

To reach Kiratpur from Chandigarh, commuters need to take National Highway 205 and the Kurali Bypass Road. This drive takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes. From Kiratpur, travelers can enter the Kiratpur-Manali Highway, which spans 195 km to Manali and takes approximately six hours to cover.

Expressway Route

The Chandigarh-Manali Expressway passes through the following locations:

1. Chandigarh

2. Kiratpur

3. Ner Chowk

4. Pandoh

5. Takoli

6. Kullu

7. Manali

The project includes 140 km of realignments, bypasses, and tunnels, along with upgrading 87 km of the existing two-lane road to a four-lane highway.

Construction Packages and Costs

The expressway construction was divided into five sections. Here is the stretch-wise cost breakdown:

The initial estimated budget for the project was Rs. 1,818.47 crore, but due to construction challenges, such as tunnels and bridges in the Himalayan region, the cost increased to Rs. 6,000 crore.

Additional Infrastructure - Foot Over Bridges

To enhance road safety, NHAI has planned to build 18 foot over bridges along the expressway. These will be constructed in Mandi, Bilaspur, and Mandi districts of Himachal Pradesh at a total cost of Rs. 14.60 crore. These foot over bridges will help pedestrians safely cross the highway, reducing the risk of accidents.

Delhi to Manali Route Breakdown

For those traveling from Delhi to Manali, the journey is divided into three main stretches:

How to Get Help on the Expressway

In case of emergencies or assistance, commuters can contact the following authorities:

National Highways Authority of India (NHAI)

• Contact Number: +91-11-25074100-200

• Fax Number: +91-11-25093507-14

• Email Address: tis@nhai.org

• Address: G 5 & 6, Sector 10, Dwarka, New Delhi - 110075

Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC)

• Chandigarh ISBT Enquiry: 0172-2668943

• Helpline (Outside Himachal): 1800-180-8185

• Helpline (Within Himachal): 1100

• Email: helplinehrtc@gmail.com

Final Words - Chandigarh-Manali Expressway

The Chandigarh-Manali Expressway is a major step toward improving travel between Chandigarh and Manali. It has not only reduced travel time and fuel costs but also provided a safer and more convenient journey. Despite the challenges faced during construction, the expressway was completed on time and is now set to benefit tourists, locals, and transporters for years to come.

With smoother roads and breathtaking views, this highway is set to boost tourism and real estate. If you're planning a trip or looking for rental properties along the route, check out EazeMyRent for the best rental deals.