The Government of India has sanctioned Rs. 93,55,59,489 for the special repair and strengthening of embankments at vulnerable locations along National Highway-154A. This approval follows the sustained follow-up and persistent efforts of the Himachal Pradesh Government.
Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh informed that the State had been consistently demanding urgent repair of the highway due to repeated damage during monsoon seasons. After the monsoon disaster in Chamba district, detailed assessments were carried out, and the minister personally visited the affected stretches. Based on consultations with local authorities and technical teams, the State Government strongly pursued the matter with the Centre for immediate financial support.
He said that the Union Ministry of Road Transport & Highways has now granted both technical and administrative approval after examining the Public Works Department’s detailed proposal. The sanctioned project will cover special repair of embankments on the Chakki–Banikhet–Chamba–Bharmour section of NH-154A. The work will be closely monitored to prevent delays and ensure that the repair and strengthening meet required standards.
According to the minister, the implementation plan includes 30% completion in 2025–26, full physical completion in 2026–27, followed by structured maintenance up to 2031–32. This phased approach will ensure long-term protection of vulnerable slopes and enhance the durability and safety of the highway. Vikramaditya Singh noted that securing long-term maintenance approval from the Centre is a significant achievement for the State.
Calling NH-154A a lifeline for tourism, trade, and daily connectivity, he said that strengthening of embankments will reduce frequent road closures, slippages, and disruptions during heavy rainfall. The State had repeatedly highlighted how recurring landslides and erosion jeopardized commuter safety and affected essential services and economic activities.
The minister added that this sanction reinforces the State Government’s commitment to improving road safety and disaster preparedness. He said that similar approvals will be sought for other vulnerable stretches along national highways to ensure uninterrupted connectivity across Himachal Pradesh.
He further informed that the Regional Officer of the Ministry in Shimla will serve as the Drawing and Disbursing Officer for this project, and all works will be executed as per the technical note issued by the Ministry. Vikramaditya Singh reiterated that persistent efforts of the State Government have been yielding major approvals from the Centre, including this significant sanction for NH-154A.
