Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh today said that safeguarding the interests of Himachal Pradesh remains his foremost priority and that ensuring balanced and equitable development across all regions of the State has been his consistent political commitment.
He stated that rising above party considerations, he has continuously pursued development initiatives for every part of Himachal Pradesh, with particular emphasis on remote and hilly areas, while firmly protecting the State’s rights and interests. Through sustained representations and proactive engagement with the Union Government, he has worked to secure timely support for key infrastructure projects.
The Minister informed that during his meeting with Union Minister for Rural Development Shivraj Singh Chouhan, he strongly raised the issue of the timely release of funds for road construction in difficult terrains. As a result of these persistent efforts, 294 road projects under Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana–IV (PMGSY-IV), covering 1,538.058 kilometres, have been approved for Himachal Pradesh at a total cost of Rs. 2,247.24 crore. Of this, Rs. 2,019.70 crore will be provided by the Ministry of Rural Development, with the average cost per kilometre fixed at Rs. 146.11 lakh.
Providing district-wise details, he said that approvals include four roads in Bilaspur, 65 in Chamba, two in Hamirpur, 12 in Kangra, eight in Kinnaur, 65 in Kullu, two in Lahaul & Spiti, 23 in Mandi, 97 in Shimla, 11 in Sirmaur, three in Solan and two in Una.
Vikramaditya Singh said that all procedural formalities were completed well in advance, reflecting his approach of advance planning and outcome-oriented governance. With this approval, PMGSY-IV works will now formally begin in the State. He added that review meetings with Chief Engineers and senior officers will be held soon to ensure timely and quality execution of the projects.
Expressing concern over declining rainfall and snowfall, the Minister said that climate change poses a serious and immediate challenge, particularly for water resources and horticulture, and should be treated as a warning for future risks.
He assured that every rupee received will be utilized with full transparency, quality and accountability, focusing on road upgradation, bridge construction and the improvement of accident-prone black spots.
The Minister said that the approval reflects his accountability and commitment towards the nearly 75 lakh people of Himachal Pradesh. He added that this is only the first phase, and more Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) will be prepared and submitted to the Centre in the coming months. “Our efforts will continue until every region of Himachal Pradesh is connected by a strong and reliable road network,” he asserted.
