Shimla, December 13: In a significant move to improve road infrastructure in Himachal Pradesh, Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh met with Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari in New Delhi. During their meeting, Singh thanked Gadkari for approving a substantial fund of Rs 350 crore under the Central Road Infrastructure Fund (CRIF). This funding is expected to significantly enhance road connectivity across the state, providing a boost to both economic development and the tourism industry.
Key Infrastructure Projects to Improve Connectivity and Tourism
One of the most crucial aspects of the meeting was the approval of funds for vital road projects that will streamline travel within the state. Singh highlighted the importance of the funds, which will aid in the construction and upgradation of roads, particularly in remote areas, thus facilitating smoother transportation for locals and tourists alike. The road network improvements are poised to bolster the state’s economic growth by providing better access to business hubs and tourist destinations.
Exemption for Ropeway Projects and Strategic Road Development
During the discussions, Singh also expressed his gratitude to Gadkari for the exemption of ropeway projects from forest clearance through the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change. This exemption will significantly expedite the construction of ropeway systems, a vital mode of transportation in hilly regions, ensuring that key tourist destinations remain accessible year-round.
Singh further urged the Union Minister to approve the construction of an alternative road between Ghatasani-Shilh-Budhani-Bhubu Jot-Kullu, along with a tunnel at Bhubu Jot. This project will reduce the distance on National Highway 144 by 40 kilometers, making it a key development from both a tourism and strategic standpoint. By enhancing the road network in Kullu, this initiative is expected to make travel to the region more efficient, attracting more tourists to the Kullu Valley, a major tourist destination in Himachal Pradesh.
Strategic Infrastructure Enhancements: Bridges and Connectivity
In addition to the road improvements, Vikramaditya Singh also appealed to Gadkari for the approval of two major bridge projects to improve connectivity across the state:
- Double Lane Bridge at Basantipattan and Kheri: Singh requested the Union Minister’s support for the construction of a double-lane bridge over the Beas River between Basantipattan and Kheri, connecting the Kangra and Hamirpur districts. With an estimated cost of Rs 125.57 crore, this bridge will greatly improve road access and reduce travel time between these two districts, under the Bharat Setu Yojana.
- Steel Truss Bridge on Pandoh-Shiva Road: Singh also emphasized the need for a 110-meter long single-lane steel truss motorable bridge on the Beas River along the Pandoh-Shiva Road in Mandi district. The proposed bridge, costing Rs 19.09 crore, will provide much-needed access for the locals and help improve connectivity between remote areas in Mandi.
Assurance of Support from Union Minister Nitin Gadkari
During the meeting, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari assured the Public Works Minister that the central government would provide all necessary support to Himachal Pradesh for these vital infrastructure projects. Gadkari’s assurance marks a significant step forward in the development of roadways in the state, especially in improving access to some of the most remote and strategically important regions.
By securing these crucial projects, Vikramaditya Singh has made a strong case for enhancing the state’s road network, with special focus on tourism, strategic development, and economic growth. As these projects come to fruition, they are expected to positively impact the daily lives of residents while boosting Himachal Pradesh’s tourism industry, furthering the state’s progress towards sustainable development.
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