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Deputy Chief Minister Announces ₹200 Crore for Drinking Water Projects in Kullu; ₹158 Crore Allocated for Disaster Mitigation Efforts
The week-long International Kullu Dussehra Festival concluded on Wednesday with a vibrant and emotional ceremony held at Atal Sadan. Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, who presided as the chief guest, announced a 10 percent increase in the honorarium of traditional baja-bajantari folk performers who contribute to the festival each year.
Agnihotri said the state government would invest ₹200 crore to upgrade drinking water infrastructure in Kullu district, ensuring residents have access to clean and uninterrupted water supply. He added that ₹158 crore has already been allocated for disaster mitigation initiatives.
Highlighting the success of flood prevention measures along the Beas River, Agnihotri noted that these projects have significantly reduced damage during natural calamities. He detailed several completed works, including projects worth ₹8.73 crore at Raison, ₹8.65 crore along the right bank of the Beas in Manali, ₹8.34 crore near the old-age home, ₹3 crore at the Kullu Rafting Centre, and ₹4.35 crore near the cowshed at Lanka Bekar. The remaining ₹58 crore earmarked for flood protection, he assured, would be used for similar projects across the district.
Congratulating Kullu MLA and Festival Committee Chairman Sunder Singh Thakur, Deputy Commissioner Torul S. Ravish, and their team for the successful organization of the grand event, Agnihotri said, “Kullu Dussehra stands as a living testimony to Himachal Pradesh’s divine culture, faith, unity, and folk heritage. It not only reflects our traditions but also enhances the state’s identity on the global stage.”
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to preserving dev (deity) culture while promoting tourism and employment opportunities for local communities. Commending the festival’s dedication to disaster-affected families, Agnihotri said, “The decision to celebrate Dussehra with simplicity and compassion for those impacted by recent calamities is truly commendable.”
The Deputy Chief Minister also lauded the contribution of local artists and the rich cultural diversity showcased throughout the event. Later, he visited the exhibitions at Dhalpur Ground, where various departments displayed their development initiatives.
Earlier, Kullu MLA Sunder Singh Thakur stated that this year’s Dussehra was dedicated to supporting families affected by natural disasters, with proceeds from the festival to be used for relief work. Meanwhile, representatives from the Bhuttico Weavers’ Society presented a cheque of ₹3 lakh to the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund.
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