Himachal Pradesh News
Congress Unveils Smart Infrastructure and Green Development Plan for Dharamsala Civic Polls
With a strong focus on smart infrastructure, tourism growth and green urban development, the Congress on Thursday unveiled its manifesto for the upcoming Dharamsala Municipal Corporation elections. The party announced 29 major promises aimed at transforming Dharamsala into a cleaner, smarter and more tourist-friendly city.
With a strong focus on smart infrastructure, tourism growth and green urban development, the Congress on Thursday unveiled its manifesto for the upcoming Dharamsala Municipal Corporation elections. The party announced 29 major promises aimed at transforming Dharamsala into a cleaner, smarter and more tourist-friendly city.
The manifesto was released by Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu in the presence of senior Congress leaders, including Rajni Patil, Agriculture Minister Chaudhary Chander Kumar and HP Congress president Vinay Kumar.
Congress Focuses on Smart and Green Dharamsala
The Congress manifesto promises several modern civic projects, including smart LED streetlights, EV charging stations, organised parking facilities and upgraded sewerage systems across the city. The party also pledged to develop green parks in every municipal ward and improve pedestrian safety through the construction of secure footpaths across all 17 wards.
Among the key highlights of the manifesto are:
- Installation of smart LED streetlights
- EV charging infrastructure to support electric mobility
- Expansion of modern sewerage systems in merged areas
- Development of organised parking zones
- Green parks in every ward
- Underground electricity cabling
- Free Wi-Fi and smart internet zones
- Digital libraries and learning centres
- Modern water supply systems
- Electric public transport services
The Congress also proposed restoration and beautification of the famous Dal Lake to boost tourism and environmental conservation efforts.
Tourism and Local Economy at the Centre of Development Plan
The party’s manifesto places major emphasis on tourism-driven growth in Dharamsala. Proposed projects include water recreation facilities near the War Memorial, gaming and innovation zones, vending spaces for street vendors and dedicated dog shelters.
Congress leaders also announced plans to develop Dharamsala as an international tourism and sports hub. An open-air theatre and cultural habitat centre at Kotwali Bazaar has also been proposed to promote local culture and tourism activities.
Additionally, the manifesto includes skill development programmes under the Chief Minister’s Centre for Excellence initiative aimed at creating employment opportunities for local youth.
Sukhu Targets BJP Over Debt and Infrastructure
Addressing the media after the manifesto launch, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu accused the previous BJP government of increasing the state’s debt burden without building sustainable infrastructure.
Sukhu claimed that despite financial challenges, the present Congress government has prioritised governance reforms, tourism, education and green energy initiatives. He also stated that the government has already approved drainage, drain and streetlight projects for all municipal wards in Dharamsala and implementation will begin soon after completion of the tender process.
Big Development Plans for Kangra and Dharamsala
Highlighting future infrastructure projects, Sukhu said the government is working on the expansion of Kangra Airport with a proposed land acquisition budget of nearly Rs 2,000 crore.
The government is also planning heliports in Palampur, Dharamsala and Jawalamukhi to improve regional connectivity and tourism.
Another major announcement included plans for an international convention centre near Tapovan, estimated to cost around Rs 400-500 crore. Several key government offices, including the HRTC Commissioner’s office and Tourism Development Corporation headquarters, are also proposed to be shifted to Dharamsala to strengthen the local economy.
Congress Eyes Urban Transformation Ahead of Dharamsala Elections
As the Dharamsala Municipal Corporation elections approach, the Congress is positioning its campaign around smart infrastructure, sustainable urban planning and tourism-led economic growth. With promises ranging from green mobility to digital infrastructure, the party is aiming to present Dharamsala as a future-ready hill city focused on both development and environmental balance.
