Himachal Pradesh Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Vikramaditya Singh met Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari in New Delhi to discuss infrastructure development in Himachal Pradesh.
During the meeting, Vikramaditya expressed gratitude for the sanctioning of Rs 350 crore under the Central Road and Infrastructure Fund (CRIF), a move expected to significantly enhance road connectivity and boost the state’s economic growth.
Vikramaditya also thanked Gadkari for exempting ropeway projects from forest clearance requirements, a step facilitated by the Union Ministry for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, which will streamline the development of tourism infrastructure.
The PWD Minister proposed the construction of an alternate road from Ghatasni, Shilha-Badhani-Bhubujot-Kullu, including a tunnel at Bhubujot, under NH-144. This road would shorten the current distance by 40 km, offering strategic and tourism benefits, particularly for visitors to Kullu district.
Vikramaditya further urged the Union Minister to approve the construction of a Rs 125.57 crore double-lane bridge over the Beas river between Basantipattan and Kheri. This bridge, connecting Kangra and Hamirpur districts, has already been flagged as a priority by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu in a previous meeting.
The PWD Minister requested the approval of a Rs 19.09 crore single-lane steel truss motorable bridge spanning 110 metres over the Beas river on the Pandoh-Shiva road in Mandi district.
Union Minister Gadkari assured of Vikramaditya of all possible support for these infrastructure projects, reaffirming the central government’s commitment to aiding Himachal Pradesh’s development initiatives.
Himachal PWD Minister Vikramaditya meets Nitin Gadkari, seeks sanction for several highway projects
