CM Sukhu Asserts Himachal’s Right Over Its Water Resources Amid Punjab-Haryana Dispute

3-Point Quick Take:

1. Himachal’s Water Rights Asserted: CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu emphasized that Himachal Pradesh deserves its rightful share of water and questioned the benefits the state has received despite being a key source of both water and hydroelectric power for neighboring states.

2. Infrastructure Development in New Shimla: The Chief Minister inaugurated a ₹18 crore multi-level parking facility in Sector-5, accommodating over 50 vehicles, and announced additional projects worth ₹2 crore, including a new parking lot, community center, and PHC.

3. Personal Connection to the Area: CM Sukhu highlighted his personal ties to New Shimla, where he spent his childhood and began his political journey, underscoring the area’s transformation over time.

Shimla, May 5: Amid the ongoing water-sharing conflict between Punjab and Haryana, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu emphasized that the people of Himachal deserve their rightful share of the state’s natural water resources. Speaking at the inauguration of a new ₹18 crore multi-level parking facility in Sector-5, New Shimla, the Chief Minister pointed out that while water flows from Himachal to other states, the state itself sees little benefit.

“Himachal generates 12,000 MW of electricity, yet what do we get in return?” he questioned. “SJVNL has become a ₹6,700 crore company, but what has Himachal received from it?” CM Sukhu noted that while Punjab and Haryana are in a tug-of-war over water, it is Himachal’s rivers they rely on.

The newly inaugurated three-story parking facility can accommodate over 50 vehicles and is expected to significantly ease congestion for local residents. On the occasion, the Chief Minister also announced a new parking project worth ₹1.5 crore and sanctioned ₹50 lakh for the construction of another parking structure, a community center, and a Primary Health Centre (PHC) in New Shimla.

Reflecting on his personal connection to the area, CM Sukhu shared that his sister resides there and that he spent his childhood in the neighborhood. “My political journey began right here,” he said, recalling how the area once had only footpaths and has now witnessed considerable development.

The event was attended by Technical Education Minister Rajesh Dharmani, Shimla Mayor Surinder Chauhan, Deputy Mayor Uma Kaushal, HIMUDA Vice Chairman Yashwant Chajta, APMC Chairman Dev Anand Verma, local councillors, and other dignitaries.