Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Thursday established firm deadlines for the ongoing utility duct project in Shimla, directing officials to complete tarring work up to Shimla Club by May 10 and up to the Lift area by June 15 to ease commuter movement.
Project Details and Budget
Presiding over a meeting of the Public Works Department, the Chief Minister stated that Rs 145 crore is being invested in constructing utility ducts spanning 7 kilometers from Chhota Shimla to Willy's Park. He urged the department to expedite the work and ensure completion within the stipulated timeline.
Tourism and Aesthetic Goals
Sukhu emphasized that Shimla, being the state capital and a major tourist destination, attracts lakhs of visitors annually. He stressed the need to eliminate overhead cables to enhance the visitor experience, noting that the project would help boost tourist inflow. He added that Shimla, known as the "Queen of Hills," must retain its charm.
Scope of the Utility Duct
The utility duct will extend from Chhota Shimla to Willy's Park, from the Secretariat via Lok Bhawan to Oak Over, and from Sher-e-Punjab through Lower Bazar up to CTO and further to Willy's Park. These ducts will accommodate underground electric and water lines, along with other utility cables, and significantly enhance the city's aesthetic appeal.
