PWD Minister Vikramaditya Singh Seeks Central Government Assistance for Urban Development in Himachal Pradesh.
Shimla:
In a meeting held last evening in New Delhi, the Public Works Department (PWD) Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Vikramaditya Singh, urged the Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs, Manohar Lal Khattar, to reconsider the criteria set under the Urban Challenge Fund for the redevelopment of cities in the state. Singh highlighted the unique challenges posed by the state’s difficult hilly terrain and small population, which, he argued, make it difficult for the cities to meet the existing criteria for funding.
During the discussion, Singh requested that the Union Minister relax the current parameters and fix the criteria on a 90:10 basis, with 90% of the funding being allocated to the state. This adjustment, he emphasized, would better accommodate the geographical and demographic realities of Himachal Pradesh, ensuring that the state’s cities can benefit from the redevelopment funds.
In addition to this, the PWD Minister informed the Union Minister that the state had launched the “One State One Portal: citizensewa” initiative under the National Urban Digital Mission. This digital initiative aims to streamline urban services and improve the delivery of services to citizens. Singh appealed for Rs 70 crore from the central government to ensure the successful implementation of this scheme over the next five years. He explained that the funds allocated by the state government for the project from its own resources will be exhausted by March 2025, and additional funds from the Government of India are necessary to sustain and effectively implement the initiative.
Singh also raised concerns about the financial liabilities under the National Urban Livelihood Mission and requested Rs 3.28 crore to clear these outstanding dues. Furthermore, he sought special funds from the central government for the construction of parking facilities and urban infrastructure development to improve the quality of life in Himachal Pradesh’s urban areas.
In response, Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar assured the PWD Minister of all possible assistance to Himachal Pradesh, expressing the central government’s willingness to support the state in its efforts to enhance urban infrastructure and services. The meeting was a step towards ensuring that Himachal Pradesh’s cities receive the necessary financial support and flexibility to overcome the challenges posed by their unique topography and size.
