Union Minister Nitin Gadkari Approves Rs 200 Crore CRIF Funding for Himachal Pradesh Road Project
In a significant development for Himachal Pradesh's infrastructure, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Tuesday granted in-principle approval for Rs 200 crore under the Central Road Infrastructure Fund (CRIF). This funding is earmarked for the Chaila–Neripul–Yashwant Nagar–Oachghat road project, which traverses the districts of Shimla, Sirmaur, and Solan.
Boost for Apple Growers and Horticultural Sector
The newly approved road project is poised to deliver substantial benefits to the state's apple growers and the broader horticultural community. By enhancing transportation networks and improving market access, the initiative aims to streamline the movement of produce, thereby boosting economic opportunities for local farmers. The improved connectivity is expected to reduce transit times and costs, facilitating better price realization for agricultural goods.
High-Level Meeting Between CM Sukhu and Gadkari
The approval followed a detailed meeting in New Delhi between Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu and Minister Gadkari. During their discussions, the focus was on strengthening road infrastructure across the state, with Sukhu advocating for increased financial assistance to address the repair and maintenance of roads and bridges. He highlighted the challenges posed by the hilly terrain and recurrent monsoon damage, which necessitate robust and resilient infrastructure solutions.
Progress on Key Highway Projects
Chief Minister Sukhu provided an update on the Shimla–Mataur national highway, a critical corridor that connects eight districts, the state capital, and neighboring states. He emphasized the need for constructing a maximum number of tunnels in the Shimla–Shalaghat and Bhager–Hamirpur packages, citing geological sensitivity and the demanding hilly conditions as key factors.
Expediting Detailed Project Reports and Addressing Monsoon Damage
Sukhu also called for the expedited preparation of the detailed project report (DPR) for the four-laning of Package IV, which covers the stretch from the end of the Hamirpur bypass at Chilbahal to Bhangbar, including the proposed northern Hamirpur bypass. He drew attention to severe monsoon damage on the Chilbahal–Pucca Baroh section, a vital route to major religious destinations that has not been strengthened for the past 5-6 years. Sukhu requested that this stretch of NH-03 be handed over to the national highway wing of the state Public Works Department and sought early sanction of Rs 38.37 crore by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).
Assurances of Full Support from Gadkari
In response, Minister Gadkari approved the requested amount and assured the state government of full support in its infrastructure endeavors. This commitment underscores the central government's dedication to enhancing connectivity and economic development in Himachal Pradesh, particularly in regions reliant on agriculture and tourism.
The approval of the CRIF funding marks a pivotal step towards improving road infrastructure in the state, with potential long-term benefits for local communities, businesses, and the overall economy.
