Public Works and Urban Development Minister Vikramaditya Singh announced that the Himachal Pradesh government is aggressively pushing central government-funded projects to fast-track the state’s infrastructure development. Following high-level meetings in Delhi with key Union Ministers, Singh revealed that regular engagement with the Centre is yielding tangible results for major highway, tunnel, and urban development initiatives across the state.
Highlighting proactive disaster management during the monsoon season, the Minister noted that Himachal roads have suffered significantly less damage this year compared to the past two to three years. To ensure minimal disruption for local farmers, horticulturists, and commuters, heavy machinery—including JCBs and Poclain excavators—has been strategically deployed across landslide-prone points. Field officers remain under strict directives to reopen blocked routes within 24 hours of any landslide occurrence.
During deliberations with Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, several high-value highway projects received immediate momentum. In-principle approval was granted for ₹25.11 crore toward the tarring and upgrading of the Banjar-Aut stretch on NH-305, alongside ₹395 crore to upgrade the Nagrota Bagwan-Ranital road on NH-303. Singh also urged the Centre to expedite approvals for the monumental ₹1,775 crore Jalori Tunnel project and requested an increase in the annual CRIF allocation to ₹200 crore to match the state’s challenging mountain geography.
Addressing urban expansion in a meeting with Union Minister for Power, Housing, and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal Khattar, Vikramaditya Singh sought federal support to modernize urban infrastructure and relieve heavy pressure on existing cities. Proposals include developing a modern satellite town adjacent to Chandigarh and Panchkula, securing ₹1,200 crore under the Urban Challenge Fund, releasing pending funds under the AMRUT scheme, and expanding Used Water Management coverage under Swachh Bharat Mission 2.0 to all urban local bodies.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
