Road Collapse Sparks Outrage in Shimla: Geological Survey to Investigate

A portion of the road in Shimla's Bhattakufar area sank, causing disruption and a local outcry. The Geological Survey of India is inspecting the site to identify the cause. The National Highway Authority of India and Himachal Pradesh Public Works Department dispute responsibility. Construction work has been halted temporarily.

The Geological Survey of India has begun inspecting a subsided road section in Shimla's Bhattakufar area to determine the cause of the incident, officials reported on Saturday.

The inspection follows a district administration request after a road portion collapsed on November 23, immobilizing a school bus and endangering residents.

Locals blame construction activities for a nearby tunnel by the National Highway Authority of India, though the agency refutes this, attributing road maintenance responsibility to the Himachal Pradesh Public Works Department. Shimla's Deputy Commissioner has halted tunnel construction work and temporarily suspended the company's blasting license while investigations continue.

(With inputs from agencies.)