2024 in Review: New Infrastructure Developments in Shimla, but Key Projects Remain Incomplete
Escalator made for Jakhu Temple-DT Photo
Escalators, Smart Footpaths, and More – A Year of Mixed Progress
Shimla, December 30: The year 2024 has brought some significant developments to Shimla city, including the installation of an escalator at Jakhu Temple, the completion of the Dhali bus station, and the creation of smart footpaths that have improved pedestrian movement. However, despite these advancements, more than 15 major projects, worth a collective Rs 300 crore, remain unfinished, leaving many promises unfulfilled by the year’s end.
One of the most prominent achievements this year was the inauguration of the Jakhu escalator in March. This escalator has provided much-needed relief to the thousands of devotees who visit the Jakhu Temple, making their journey easier and faster. Additionally, the Dhali bus station was completed, providing a new hub for buses operating to upper Shimla. The city also saw the completion of smart footpaths and walkways at Sanjauli and Chota Shimla, as well as improvements along Circular Road, benefiting pedestrians and easing movement across key areas.
Other notable projects include the revitalization of the historic Ridge Ground, which is now almost ready and has enhanced the area’s aesthetic appeal. New shops were established at Rivoli Market, and several new book cafes also opened, contributing to the city’s vibrant cultural scene.
However, not all projects have met the expected timeline. Over 15 major infrastructure projects, valued at approximately Rs 300 crore, remain incomplete despite several years of planning and funding. The delay in their execution has caused frustration among city residents. Some of these projects, including the IGMC new OPD parking, Auckland Tunnel parking, and lifts at Vikasnagar and Lakkar Bazaar, are nearly ready but are held back due to the lack of official inaugurations.
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Moreover, four critical projects, such as the Vidhan Sabha flyover on Cart Road (Rs 40 crore), the double-lane flyover in Khalini (Rs 17 crore), the underground wiring project on Mall Road (Rs 50 crore), and the widening of Circular Road (Rs 122 crore), remain mired in bureaucratic delays and have not seen significant progress this year.
With these unfinished projects and the government’s failure to complete key infrastructure developments on time, 2024 has been a year of mixed outcomes for Shimla’s urban development. While some positive strides have been made, the city’s residents are still waiting for many promised facilities to become a reality.
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