Bara Bhangal to Get Road Connectivity in Two Years: CM Sukhu Reviews PWD Projects.
Shimla:
In a major step towards improving infrastructure in Himachal Pradesh, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced that the remote region of Bara Bhangal in Kangra district will be connected by road within the next two years. The announcement was made during a review meeting of the Public Works Department (PWD) held on Tuesday, where the Chief Minister discussed the department’s ongoing projects and future plans.
Sukhu revealed that Rs. 2,806 crore had been allocated for PWD projects in the current financial year, with Rs. 1,238 crore already spent by the end of September. He urged the department to accelerate the completion of ongoing projects, emphasizing the adoption of modern technology to speed up development. The Chief Minister also highlighted that the financial powers of engineers were being enhanced and the process of calling tenders had been streamlined, contributing to faster project implementation.
The CM stressed that road connectivity was a priority for the state government, especially in remote and difficult-to-access areas. Notably, the ongoing metalling of the Dodra Kwar road, a long-standing demand, is being fast-tracked. He also assured that the government would prioritize the construction of tunnels to protect the region’s fragile Himalayan ecology while improving connectivity. Sukhu further advocated for the construction of tunnels in difficult terrains to maximize benefits while minimizing environmental impact.
The Chief Minister also reviewed various infrastructure projects including the Bhubhujot tunnel, for which a detailed project report is to be prepared soon. He reiterated the government’s commitment to providing the necessary funds for the construction of approach roads and other related works.
Other key projects reviewed included underground utility ducts in Shimla, under which Rs. 150 crore has already been allocated for the installation of underground cables and pipes in the city. The CM also reviewed works under the PMGSY, NABARD, CIRF, and Sukh Aashrya schemes, as well as projects related to Rajiv Gandhi Model Day-Boarding Schools and heliports.
Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh, along with senior officers including Additional Chief Secretary K.K. Pant and Engineer-in-Chief N.P. Singh, also participated in the meeting, providing suggestions for enhancing the department’s effectiveness.
