Himachal Pradesh News
PWD Minister Vikramaditya Singh Seeks Continued Support from Nitin Gadkari for Key Himachal Infrastructure Projects
Himachal Pradesh Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Vikramaditya Singh met Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari in New Delhi and requested continued support from the Central Government for several key infrastructure projects across the hill state.
Himachal Pradesh Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Vikramaditya Singh met Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari in New Delhi and requested continued support from the Central Government for several key infrastructure projects across the hill state.
During the meeting, the PWD Minister emphasised the need for timely release of funds and greater flexibility in project norms so that important road, bridge and tunnel works in Himachal Pradesh can move forward without delays.
Call for a Sustainable Road Network in Hill State
Vikramaditya Singh highlighted the importance of building a long-term and sustainable road network in the state. He said improved infrastructure would benefit not only local residents but also farmers, horticulturists, tourists and defence forces, all of whom depend heavily on reliable connectivity in mountainous regions.
He urged the Union Minister to treat the Bhubu-Jot tunnel and its approach road as a priority project and proposed that the entire stretch be declared a National Highway due to its strategic, economic and tourism significance.
Bhubu-Jot Tunnel Could Transform Connectivity
According to the PWD Minister, the proposed tunnel would create an all-weather alternative route between Jogindernagar and Kullu through the Lug Valley. Once completed, it is expected to significantly reduce travel distance and time between major locations such as Pathankot, Jogindernagar, Mandi and Kullu, while also easing congestion on existing roads.
The project is seen as a major step toward improving connectivity in central Himachal Pradesh and boosting tourism and regional economic activity.
Push for More Road and Bridge Projects
Apart from the tunnel project, Vikramaditya Singh also discussed several road widening, strengthening and bridge construction projects across different parts of the state.
He thanked the Central Government for approvals already granted and requested that pending proposals related to hill road improvements, slope protection works, tunnels and bypasses be cleared quickly so that development work can continue at a faster pace.
Centre Appreciates Himachal’s Infrastructure Vision
The minister also conveyed the state government’s appreciation for policy initiatives introduced by the Centre, including support for ropeway projects and relaxation of certain norms for infrastructure in hilly terrain. These measures, he said, could help diversify transportation options and reduce pressure on narrow mountain roads.
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari appreciated the detailed presentation made by the Himachal delegation and assured that the state’s concerns and infrastructure priorities would be examined sympathetically.
He reiterated that the Union Government remains committed to strengthening road and bridge infrastructure in hill and border states, adding that the genuine requirements of Himachal Pradesh would receive due consideration.
