NHAI to conduct safety audits for 29 under construction tunnels
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is set to conduct safety audits for all 29 under construction tunnels nationwide to prevent mishaps like those seen in the Silkyara tunnel. NHAI Chairman Santosh Yadav has urged officials to expedite the process, involving regional officers, project directors, and independent consultants. The current total length of NHAI's tunnel construction is 79 km, with Himachal Pradesh having the most tunnels (12), followed by Jammu and Kashmir (6). The audits will extend to completed tunnels in the second phase. Road Transport & Highways Secretary Anurag Jain mentioned that while Standard Operating Procedures are in place, the NHAI remains open to reassessing tunnel construction plans, particularly in hilly states.