In a significant move aimed at reshaping urban development, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced on Monday the state government's plan to create a world-class township near the border with Chandigarh. The proposed 'Him-Chandigarh' township will be situated close to the major industrial hub of Baddi in Solan district.
Land Acquisition and Phased Development
The state cabinet has already given its nod for the acquisition of approximately 3,400 bighas of land, with the government securing consent from a majority of the landowners. To meet comprehensive planning needs, the total land acquisition may extend up to 3,700 bighas. Chief Minister Sukhu, while addressing the media, emphasized that the development will be executed in a phased manner. This approach is designed to ensure organized urban expansion and the simultaneous creation of robust civic infrastructure.
Project Management and Strategic Scope
The entire ambitious project will be managed and overseen by the Himachal Pradesh Housing and Urban Development Authority (HIMUDA). The township will be developed on a mix of government and privately held land. Its strategic scope is broad, as it is also planned to cover the influential Baddi-Nalagarh industrial corridor. This integration is expected to significantly strengthen the connectivity between industrial zones and residential areas, fostering a more efficient ecosystem for businesses and residents alike.
Balancing Growth with Ecology
In a bid to balance development with environmental responsibility, the state government has outlined plans to pool village panchayat land located across the border. Crucially, the plan involves preserving a substantial 10,000 bighas of forest area to maintain the region's ecological balance. Furthermore, the government is considering the development of a separate township near the scenic Morni Hills.
Chief Minister Sukhu highlighted the core objectives of this major initiative. The 'Him-Chandigarh' township is envisioned to decongest existing urban centres, provide planned and modern housing solutions, and generate substantial economic opportunities. All this is planned while steadfastly committing to the principles of environmental sustainability, marking a new chapter in Himachal's development narrative.
