Dehra, Kangra | June 3:
Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu today inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for six major development projects worth ₹100 crore in the Dehra Assembly constituency of Kangra district. These initiatives are set to significantly boost local infrastructure and promote employment through tourism development.
In Bankhandi (Haripur Tehsil), the Chief Minister laid the foundation stone for several key components of the Durgesh Aranya Wildlife Park, including a hospital administration and diagnostics block, a centralized kitchen, and a quarantine center, with an estimated cost of ₹47.62 crore. Additionally, he laid the foundation for a lift drinking water supply scheme costing ₹16.25 crore.
Among the road infrastructure projects initiated were:
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Upgradation of the Haripur–Sakri Gahra road at ₹12.87 crore
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Thatar Tripal–Mehwa Panchayat road at ₹6.64 crore
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Guler–Nandpur Bariyal Ladret road at ₹10.29 crore
He also inaugurated a community health center in Dehra Tehsil built at a cost of ₹4.96 crore.
Highlighting the region’s tourism potential, CM Sukhu announced that the Durgesh Aranya Wildlife Sanctuary is being developed into an international-standard zoological park with an overall investment of ₹619 crore. The first phase, costing ₹150 crore, is currently underway and includes the construction of 43 enclosures. Around 90% of the boundary wall has been completed, and eight check dams are being built, with further structures planned for rainwater harvesting.
Once completed, the park will host 78 species, including Asiatic lions, hog deer, monitor lizards, crocodiles, gharials, and various native birds. A wetland aviary is also being developed to house indigenous bird species.
The Chief Minister noted that the sanctuary will become a key tourism hub, offering employment and self-employment opportunities for local youth and strengthening the regional economy. He emphasized that the park’s eco-friendly design and natural beauty will help position Kangra as the tourism capital of Himachal Pradesh.
During his visit, CM Sukhu inspected ongoing construction work at the sanctuary and directed officials to ensure timely and high-quality completion. He stressed that the successful execution of this project will maximize public benefit and boost tourism-driven growth in the area.