Himachal CM Seeks Central Aid for Road Infrastructure Boost

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu met Union Minister Nitin Gadkari to discuss road projects. Highlighting the importance of road development for tourism and state growth, Sukhu sought central assistance and suggested new tunneling methods to lower maintenance costs.

In a significant move to enhance the road infrastructure of Himachal Pradesh, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu held talks with Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, in New Delhi on Thursday. The meeting focused on advancing various roads, bridges, and ropeway projects, with Sukhu requesting generous support from the central government.

The Chief Minister put forward proposals for the construction of four new road projects, emphasizing the critical role of a robust road network in boosting tourism and the overall development of the region. Recognizing roads as the 'lifelines' of the hill state, Sukhu stressed their significance in facilitating economic progress.

Sukhu also suggested innovative approaches such as tunneling in certain areas to reduce ongoing maintenance expenses. He called for a review of the Solan-Parwanoo road realignment and urged the preparation of a new detailed project report, highlighting blind spots and dangerous curves prone to accidents. Additionally, he requested the four-laning of remaining sections of the Shimla-Mataur national highway. Union Minister Gadkari assured comprehensive support for these initiatives. Principal Advisor Ram Subhag Singh and other senior state officials accompanied Sukhu during the discussions.

(With inputs from agencies.)