BJP MP Kashyap Raises Alarm Over Delayed Baddi-Barotiwala-Nalagarh Four-Lane Road Project
Former state BJP president and Shimla MP Suresh Kumar Kashyap on Thursday voiced serious concerns in the Lok Sabha regarding the prolonged delays in the Baddi-Barotiwala-Nalagarh four-lane road project located in Solan district, Himachal Pradesh. He emphasized that this issue is of significant public interest, as it is intricately linked to industrial activity and the overall economic health of the region.
Project Details and Financial Overruns
The Pinjore-Baddi-Nalagarh stretch of this critical road project was officially launched in April 2022, with an initial completion target set for September 2024. However, the project has faced substantial setbacks. The original estimated cost was Rs 556 crore, but this has since escalated to Rs 670 crore. Alarmingly, over Rs 774 crore has already been expended, yet the road remains far from finished, raising questions about financial management and project execution.
Impact on Industry and Daily Life
Kashyap described the road as a lifeline for Himachal Pradesh's industrial belt, stressing that delays are severely affecting industries, employment opportunities, and local residents. He highlighted multiple operational issues along the route, including:
- Unfinished stretches and potholes
- Uneven road surfaces and lack of service lanes
- Chaotic traffic conditions leading to daily jams
These problems have resulted in thousands of workers facing daily delays, patients and ambulances being hindered, and schoolchildren, women, and the elderly enduring hours of inconvenience. This has led to increased stress, wasted time, and financial losses for the community.
Causes of Delay and Call for Action
The parliamentarian pointed out that external factors such as heavy rains, floods, and landslides have previously damaged the road, but construction progress has still not met expectations. He cited several underlying causes for the delays, including:
- Contractor negligence
- Delayed approvals from authorities
- Administrative inefficiency
In response, Kashyap urged the central government to take immediate action. He called for full disclosure of the current project status, the provision of a detailed stage-wise completion plan, and the establishment of a final timeline to ensure timely relief for both industry and citizens. This appeal underscores the urgent need for accountability and efficient governance to revive this vital infrastructure project.
