Chief Minister Sukhu, during a public event in Haripur, Dehra Assembly constituency, distributed land allotment certificates to 89 families displaced by the Pong Dam. Acknowledging their decades-long struggle, the CM announced that each of the oustee families will also receive Rs. 3 lakh as housing aid. He assured that land will soon be allotted to the remaining displaced families as well.
Highlighting a shift in development focus toward the Dehra region, CM Sukhu remarked, “Dehra was long neglected, but now it is being brought into the mainstream of development.” He credited the change to Congress MLA Kamlesh Thakur’s recent by-election victory and emphasized the constituency’s return to the development path.
Several key announcements were made during the visit:
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Haripur CHC to be Upgraded: Haripur’s Community Health Centre will be developed into an ‘Adarsh Swasthya Sansthan’, part of a state-wide initiative to establish model health institutions in all 68 constituencies. Rs. 2 crore has been sanctioned for doctors’ residential quarters.
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Nandpur Bridge Completion by December: Responding to local concerns, the CM promised the Nandpur bridge will be finished by year-end.
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International Zoological Park at Bankhandi: A major Rs. 619 crore project, the zoo’s first phase is set to open next year, aiming to boost tourism and the local economy.
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Government Offices Shifting to Kangra: To decongest Shimla, departments like the Wildlife Wing have already moved to Kangra, with more shifts planned.
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Expansion of Kangra Airport: Work is underway, and fair compensation will be ensured for affected locals.
Addressing financial matters, the CM criticized the impact of GST on the state’s revenue, noting a drastic drop from Rs. 3,000 crore to just Rs. 150 crore annually. He also took aim at the previous BJP government, accusing it of mismanagement and attempting to undervalue state land in Nalagarh.
CM Sukhu reiterated his government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare infrastructure, particularly at IGMC Shimla and Tanda Medical College.
MLA Kamlesh Thakur expressed gratitude for the developmental projects, including the Ranital-Mubarakpur road upgrade and restoration of 24 drinking water schemes damaged in 2023. She pledged to bridge the region’s development gap within six months.
Senior Congress leaders, government officials, and party workers were also present at the event, showcasing united support for the ongoing developmental initiatives in the Dehra region.
CM Sukhu Unveils Dehra’s Growth Vision with ₹100 Cr Projects
