Subhash Mahajan
Chamba
Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri undertook an extensive tour of rural areas in the Chamba Assembly constituency, inaugurating and laying foundation stones for development projects worth nearly ₹23 crore. The initiatives, spanning drinking water, irrigation, and fire safety, reflect the government’s commitment to strengthening infrastructure and addressing grassroots needs.
The Deputy Chief Minister emphasized that “India lives in its villages,” and reiterated that the government’s foremost priority is to reach rural communities directly, listen to their concerns, and resolve issues on the ground. His visit was marked by warm receptions from local residents, who expressed gratitude for the government’s proactive approach.
Strengthening Fire Safety in Chamba
One of the key projects launched was the fire safety strengthening initiative for Chamba town, with a budget of ₹6.91 crore. The foundation stone was laid to enhance firefighting infrastructure, ensuring better preparedness against emergencies. Agnihotri noted that urban centers like Chamba require robust fire safety systems to protect lives and property, especially given the town’s growing population and heritage structures.
Drinking Water Supply for 10,000 Residents
Agnihotri inaugurated the Sanch-Parel-Sultanpur augmented drinking water scheme, constructed at a cost of ₹8.52 crore. This project will provide clean and regular drinking water to nearly 10,000 residents of Gram Panchayats Sanch and Draman. The Deputy Chief Minister highlighted that access to safe drinking water is a fundamental right and assured that the government will continue to prioritize water security across Himachal Pradesh.
Irrigation Projects for Agricultural Growth
Two major irrigation projects were also launched:
- Bhalla-Tipri-Chalera irrigation scheme (₹1.68 crore), which will benefit 42.30 hectares of farmland.
- Remodeling of Saho irrigation scheme (₹5.94 crore), designed to provide irrigation facilities to 76.45 hectares of land.
Agnihotri stressed that irrigation is vital for sustaining agriculture in hilly regions, where farmers depend heavily on timely water supply. He assured that these projects will boost productivity and improve livelihoods.
Relief for Flash Flood Victims in Obri
During his tour, the Deputy Chief Minister visited Obri village, recently affected by flash floods. He met with families, assessed damages, and directed officials to expedite relief and rehabilitation efforts. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, he announced a special assistance package of ₹50 lakh for rehabilitation works.
Agnihotri stated that providing relief to disaster-affected communities is the government’s highest priority, and pledged that affected families would receive all possible support.
Announcement of New Water Sub-Division at Saho
In a significant move, Agnihotri announced the establishment of a new Water Resources Department sub-division at Saho, fulfilling a long-standing demand of the local population. He explained that the new sub-division will accelerate the operation and maintenance of water supply schemes, ensuring timely resolution of complaints.
He instructed officials to remain stationed in Saho throughout the day to hear grievances and resolve them immediately. “There will be no shortage of funds for drinking water schemes,” he assured, underlining the government’s commitment to rural welfare.
“India Lives in Villages” — Agnihotri’s Message
Addressing public gatherings in Sanch, Bhalla, and Saho, the Deputy Chief Minister reiterated that India’s strength lies in its villages. He emphasized that leaders must visit rural areas to understand people’s problems firsthand. “Development cannot be confined to secretariats or offices; it must reach the villages where people live and work,” he said.
He directed officials to align their work with public expectations, urging them to adopt a people-centric approach. He also instructed the Transport Department to prioritize bus services in areas where residents demand connectivity, thereby strengthening trust in Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC).
Expansion of Electric Bus Fleet
Agnihotri announced that 297 new electric buses are being added to the HRTC fleet. Diesel buses operating on routes where electric buses are introduced will be redeployed to underserved rural areas, ensuring wider transport coverage. This initiative reflects the government’s dual focus on sustainability and accessibility.
Community Participation and Gratitude
Local MLA Neeraj Nayyar expressed gratitude to the Deputy Chief Minister for bringing development projects directly to villages and inaugurating them among the people. He noted that such initiatives strengthen the bond between government and citizens.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including former minister Asha Kumari, Bharti Nayyar, Zila Parishad Vice President Liaqat Ali, Panchayat Pradhan Bhalla Sandeepni Thakur, Panchayat Pradhan Saho Om Prakash, Chief Engineer of Water Resources Department Deepak Garg, Superintendent Engineer Rajesh Mongra, HRTC Divisional Manager Pankaj Chadha, and officials from Forest, Water Resources, HRTC, and Cooperative departments. A large number of local residents also participated, reflecting the community’s enthusiasm for development.
A Vision for Inclusive Development
The Deputy Chief Minister’s tour underscored the government’s vision of inclusive development, where infrastructure projects, disaster relief, and administrative reforms converge to improve rural life. By inaugurating projects worth ₹23 crore, announcing a new water sub-division, and pledging disaster relief, Agnihotri reinforced the message that governance must be responsive, transparent, and rooted in the needs of the people.
His statement — “India lives in villages, and reaching villages to solve problems is the government’s priority” — encapsulates the spirit of his visit. The initiatives launched in Chamba are expected to bring tangible improvements in water supply, irrigation, fire safety, and transport, while also strengthening resilience against natural disasters.
