Himachal Pradesh is undergoing a remarkable transformation with its road infrastructure leading the way in connecting communities and boosting economic growth. In a state where hilly terrain often isolates villages, the government has made road development a top priority, recognizing that improved connectivity is key to enhancing the lives of its people. The Public Works Department (PWD) has been at the forefront of this mission, working relentlessly to expand and upgrade the road network even reaching the most remote areas.
At present, the road network in the state spans an impressive 41,202 kilometers, with 34,917 kilometers of tarred roads ensuring safer and smoother travel. The PWD has also constructed 2,519 bridges and 36,762 kilometers of cross-drainage systems, which are crucial for maintaining road safety in hilly regions prone to landslides and heavy rains. This extensive infrastructure has connected 15,578 out of the state’s 17,882 villages, bringing them closer to progress and enabling access to essential services such as markets, schools, and healthcare.
Several key projects are also underway to further strengthen connectivity across the state. Among the highlights is the construction of four-lane highways and 68 tunnels with an investment of Rs. 12,500 crore. These projects are poised to be game changers, reducing travel time and improving access to tourism and trade vital sectors for strengthening the state’s economy. The state government has also demonstrated its commitment to infrastructure development by allocating a substantial budget of Rs. 2,240.27 crore for this financial year. Of this, Rs. 526.42 crore has already been productively utilized, resulting in the construction of 18 bridges, 33 new buildings, 190 kilometers of motorable roads, and 309 kilometers of cross-drainage infrastructure within just the first half of the year. Additionally, over 674 kilometers of road surfaces have been tarred, and 1,060 kilometers have been renewed in various areas.
A major achievement of the PWD has been the near-completion of the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), with 99 percent of PMGSY-I and 100 percent of PMGSY-II completed. This accomplishment has connected thousands of villages to essential services, significantly improving access for rural communities and supporting their journey toward prosperity.
Looking ahead, the state government has secured Rs. 293.36 crore from the Central Road and Infrastructure Fund (CRIF) for the financial year 2024-25. This funding will be directed toward five major projects, including the upgradation of the 52-kilometer Tikkar-Jarol-Gahan-Nanakhari-Khamadi road in Shimla, the construction of a high-level bridge on Gaj Khad in Kangra, and improvements in Hamirpur and Mandi districts. These projects will further enhance connectivity and improve road safety, demonstrating the government’s commitment to the progress and prosperity of all regions in the state.
To ensure the timely and efficient completion of projects, the state, under the leadership of Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, has introduced reforms. The PWD has implemented the WAMIS software to modernize project management and streamline operations. The tender process has been shortened from 51 days to 30, reducing delays and accelerating the construction of projects. Additionally, departmental engineers have been granted more authority to approve higher-value tenders, speeding up decision-making and eliminating bottlenecks that previously delayed work.
Quality control remains a top priority, with contractors facing strict penalties for substandard work. Conversely, those who deliver quality projects within stipulated timelines are rewarded with additional contracts, ensuring accountability and maintaining high standards in PWD projects.
The strides made in road infrastructure are laying the foundation for a prosperous future in Himachal Pradesh. Better roads mean more economic opportunities, improved access to services, and a higher quality of life for residents. The state government’s relentless focus on infrastructure development is not only transforming connectivity but also positioning Himachal Pradesh as a model of progress and growth.
