PWD Minister Vikramaditya Singh stresses doorstep governance; ₹1.25 crore afforestation levy to be released for Neri–Badhu road
Munish Sood
Mandi
In a significant outreach initiative aimed at strengthening grassroots governance, 181 public grievances were addressed during the ‘Government at Doorstep’ programme held in the remote Nihri area of Sundernagar constituency on Friday. The camp was chaired by Public Works and Urban Development Minister Vikramaditya Singh, who reiterated the state government’s commitment to resolving citizens’ issues at their doorsteps.
The programme witnessed participation from residents of nine panchayats, including Nihri, Ghadoi, Bajohan, Rohanda, Segal, Dumt Behli, Jarl, Bandli and Marhada Badehan. Of the 108 complaints received prior to the event, 98 had already been resolved at the administrative level. On the day of the programme, 83 additional grievances were raised, most of which were resolved on the spot, while the remaining were forwarded to the concerned departments.
Focus on Efficient Service Delivery
Addressing the gathering, Vikramaditya Singh said that under the leadership of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the government is prioritizing prompt and time-bound resolution of public issues. He highlighted that initiatives such as ‘Government at Doorstep’ camps and revenue courts are helping bridge the gap between administration and citizens, particularly in remote regions.
He added that these programmes also ensure access to essential services closer to people, including free health check-ups, disability certification, and other administrative services through departmental stalls.
Push for Roads and Power Infrastructure
Emphasizing infrastructure development, the minister stated that connecting remote areas through improved road networks remains a key focus. He announced that the road project linking Nihri via Pandar under PMGSY-III will commence within this month and directed officials to complete the work within the stipulated timeframe while maintaining quality standards.
In a key announcement, he assured that the Public Works Department will soon release an afforestation levy of ₹1.25 crore to the Forest Department for the construction of the Neri–Badhu road. To address electricity issues in the region, 16 new distribution transformers are being installed, while 22 existing transformers are being upgraded.
Major Allocations under PMGSY
Providing further details, Singh said that under the first batch of PMGSY-IV, projects covering approximately 1,500 kilometres of roads have been sanctioned in the state with an outlay of around ₹2,300 crore. He also informed that following his recent meeting with Union authorities in New Delhi, ongoing works under PMGSY-III have been granted a two-year extension, covering projects worth nearly ₹3,000 crore.
Local Issues Taken Up
The minister assured that key local demands, including filling vacant posts at Nihri College, completion of pending work at the Community Health Centre, and setting up a Tehsil Welfare Officer office in Nihri, will be taken up with the Chief Minister. He also directed officials to ensure periodic presence of welfare officers in the area.
He emphasized that priority is being given to completing public buildings that are already 70–80 percent complete within a fixed timeline.
Health Camp and On-site Services
During the programme, a health camp screened 216 individuals, while 48 disability-related cases were examined. The Sub-Divisional Magistrate’s office also facilitated issuance of registration certificates and learner’s driving licences on-site.
Earlier, the minister inspected departmental exhibitions and service centres set up at the venue and visited the Mahunag Temple, offering prayers for the well-being of the people.
