Almora.
A major landslide that occurred recently at Shail Bypass in Almora created panic among residents, putting several houses under threat and disrupting normal life. Taking swift action, the National Highway Department initiated safety and repair work at the site. Department officials inspected the location and immediately started restoration measures.
Executive Engineer Ashok Chaudhary directed that urgent steps be taken to ensure the safety of both houses and the road. He instructed officials to treat the matter with priority and avoid any negligence. Acting promptly, the department started the repair work within a week of the incident.
Assistant Engineer Pankaj Kumar informed that a breast wall is being constructed at the affected site. This protective wall will safeguard nearby houses as well as the road from further landslides. He added that once completed, the structure would provide long-term security and reduce future risks.
Assistant Engineer Shankar Singh Jadot said that special attention is being paid to the quality of construction. Standard materials are being used to ensure durability and long-lasting protection.
Local Gram Panchayat member Kapil Malhotra also visited the site to inspect the work. He said that ensuring the safety of disaster-affected residents is the top priority and appreciated the quick action of the department. He added that villagers had been living under constant fear, but the construction of the breast wall would now bring them much-needed relief.
Residents also praised the timely response of the officials. They pointed out that without this intervention, houses and the highway could have suffered heavy damage in the coming days. Locals have urged the department to prepare long-term plans for disaster-prone areas to prevent such risks in the future.
It is worth noting that Almora town and its surrounding regions are highly sensitive to landslides. During the monsoon season, incidents of hill slopes collapsing and road blockages are frequent. The recent Shail Bypass landslide once again highlighted the seriousness of the issue. The prompt response of the department has restored confidence among the people.
Along with the breast wall construction, the department is also carrying out road patching and drainage clearance works to ensure smooth water flow during rains and maintain road safety.
