Central Government Approves Rs 267 Crore for Himachal’s Road and Bridge Projects

Shimla, April 04: The Central Government has approved a significant sum of Rs 267 crore for various road and bridge projects across Himachal Pradesh. Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh made the announcement today, emphasizing that this funding will support the development of vital infrastructure in the state. The funds are part of the first phase of an ambitious plan to improve Himachal’s national highways and other critical roadways.

Vikramaditya Singh stated that the state had placed a demand for Rs 1400 crore for various infrastructure projects under the capital outlay for the financial year 2025-26. Out of this, Rs 267 crore has been released by the Government of India, marking a significant step forward in the state’s road and bridge development plans.

A Long-Awaited Boost for Infrastructure

Singh also expressed his gratitude to Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, for responding positively to the state’s demands. He revealed that he had personally raised issues regarding the expedited approval of projects and the timely release of funds with the Union Minister on several occasions.

The approved projects cover a wide range of road and bridge development initiatives. Notably, Rs 54.37 crore has been allocated for landslide mitigation on the Nigulsari-Nathpa road, and Rs 40.85 crore has been earmarked for similar landslide risk management near the Keru Bridge on the Katori Bangra-Banikhet-Chamba-Bharmaur road. These initiatives are crucial in ensuring the safety and longevity of the state’s roads, particularly in landslide-prone areas.

Key Road and Bridge Projects

In addition to landslide mitigation, several critical road projects have been greenlit. Rs 48 crore has been approved for land acquisition to make the road two-lane near the Katori Bangra-Banikhet-Chamba-Bharmaur Bhatti Nala bridge. The Centre has also allocated Rs 24.27 crore for preparing detailed project reports for other infrastructural works, including the construction of two bridges on Barna and Bore Wali Khad in the Una district.

A sum of Rs 36.93 crore has been approved for the construction of a bridge on the Swan River, further enhancing connectivity in the region. Additionally, funds have been provided for the maintenance and repair of key roads like the Kalka-Shimla-Wangtu road passing through Theog Bypass, Sainj-Luhri-Aut road, and the strengthening of the Dhali-Theog-Narkanda-Rampur road.

Jalori-Jot Tunnel Project

Minister Vikramaditya Singh also provided an update on the long-awaited Jalori-Jot Tunnel project, revealing that the alignment work for the tunnel has been completed. The Rs 1452 crore detailed project report for the tunnel is currently under preparation and is expected to be finalized within the current financial year. The tunnel will span 4.156 kilometers and is expected to play a pivotal role in improving road connectivity in the region.

A Positive Step Forward

The release of Rs 267 crore marks an important milestone in the state’s infrastructure development plans. With these projects, the state government aims to enhance road safety, strengthen connectivity, and boost economic growth by improving transport links across Himachal Pradesh. The allocation of funds and the focus on bridge and road repairs reflect the state’s commitment to ensuring that its infrastructure keeps pace with the growing needs of its residents.