Bara Bhangal to Get Road Connectivity Within Two Years: CM Advocates Tunnel Construction for Himalayan Sustainability

In a significant stride towards enhancing infrastructure in Himachal Pradesh, Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced that the remote region of Bara Bhangal in Kangra district would be connected by road within two years. Speaking at a Public Works Department (PWD) review meeting, the CM emphasized prioritizing road connectivity in the state’s hard-to-access areas and leveraging innovative infrastructure solutions to benefit the people sustainably.

The Chief Minister highlighted that an allocation of ₹2,806 crore was made to PWD for the current financial year, with ₹1,238 crore utilized by September 30. Stressing the importance of modern construction technologies, Sukhu directed the department to fast-track ongoing projects.

One key initiative is the metalling of the Dodra Kwar road, a project that has seen unprecedented focus since independence. Similarly, the CM confirmed that the Bhubhujot Tunnel project, which aims to provide year-round accessibility while preserving the fragile Himalayan ecology, has received priority status. He urged the department to expedite the preparation of detailed project reports and approach road designs for tunnels, stating that such projects would significantly benefit local communities and promote eco-tourism.

Highlighting the integral role of roads as the state’s lifelines, the CM reiterated the government’s commitment to tourism. Sukhu said the state is focusing on upgrading road infrastructure to facilitate convenient travel for residents and visitors alike. Projects like wayside amenities are being accelerated to enhance traveler experience.

The government also allocated ₹150 crore for underground utility duct systems in Shimla city to modernize infrastructure without disrupting its ecological balance. The initiative involves laying cables and pipes underground in areas such as Chhota Shimla, Chaura Maidan, and Sher-e-Punjab. This move is aimed at improving utility services and reducing visual pollution in the hill capital.

Acknowledging the environmental challenges of large-scale infrastructure projects in the Himalayan region, Sukhu strongly advocated for tunnel construction. He noted that tunnels, such as those planned for Bhubhujot, not only offer all-weather connectivity but also minimize ecological impact by reducing deforestation and habitat disruption.

The CM also reviewed several ongoing projects under PMGSY, NABARD, CIRF, Sukh Aashrya, and Rajiv Gandhi Model Day-Boarding Schools. He instructed the department to enhance heliport infrastructure to boost connectivity in remote regions further.

Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh contributed valuable insights for optimizing departmental operations, further strengthening the collaborative approach to infrastructure development in the state.

The meeting concluded with senior officials, including Additional Chief Secretary K.K. Pant and PWD Engineer-in-Chief N.P. Singh, pledging their commitment to accelerating these transformative projects, ensuring sustainable development while preserving the state’s natural heritage.

By advancing these key projects, the Himachal Pradesh government is paving the way for inclusive growth, better connectivity, and a stronger focus on ecological preservation in the region.

#Infrastructure #HimalayanDevelopment #PWDInitiatives