Deputy CM Mukesh Agnihotri Urges Nitin Gadkari to Extend All-India Taxi Permits to 15 Years
Shimla, June 9:
Deputy Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Mukesh Agnihotri, met Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, in New Delhi today and expressed gratitude for the Centre’s continued support to the state. He emphasized that due to the geographical challenges of a hilly state like Himachal Pradesh, its development is heavily dependent on the expansion of road and bridge infrastructure. Strengthening this infrastructure, he noted, is vital for improving quality of life and accelerating development.
During the meeting, Agnihotri raised key issues concerning the transport sector. He specifically urged the Union Minister to consider extending the validity of All-India Taxi Permits from the current 12 years to 15 years, aligning it with the operational lifespan of vehicles, which has already been extended to 15 years. He mentioned that this request reflects the long-standing demand of taxi operators and has been officially put forward by the Himachal Pradesh government.
Gadkari responded positively, assuring that the matter would be examined sympathetically and necessary instructions would be given to the concerned officials to move it forward.
Agnihotri also requested the early release of the remaining ₹7.63 crore under the Special Assistance Scheme for capital investment, which is aimed at phasing out old vehicles. The Union Minister immediately directed officials to release the pending amount without delay.
In addition, the Deputy CM proposed that the road from Nangal to Jaijon be declared a National Highway, highlighting its strategic importance in supporting the upcoming Bulk Drug Park in the region. Gadkari instructed officials to submit a Detailed Project Report (DPR) under the PM Gati Shakti scheme. Agnihotri noted that a DPR worth ₹429 crore has already been prepared and will soon be submitted to the central government.
He further requested the extension of the proposed four-laning of NH-503A from Amritsar–Hoshiarpur to the BhanKhadi–Jhalera stretch (approximately 15 km). This extension, he said, would enhance connectivity between the sacred sites of Shri Anandpur Sahib and Mata Chintpurni, benefitting pilgrims visiting these destinations.
Agnihotri also raised the issue of improved connectivity between Chandigarh and the Baddi industrial belt. Gadkari informed him that the matter is already under active consideration by the Government of India.
Additionally, the Deputy CM urged approval for the upgradation of the Jaijon Morh–Tahliwal Chowk link road via Bhai-ka-Morh and three associated bridges at an estimated cost of ₹48.69 crore under the Central Road and Infrastructure Fund (CRIF).
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