Himachal Pradesh CM Seeks Central Government Support for Tourism and Infrastructure Development in Key Meetings with Union Ministers

Himachal Pradesh CM Seeks Central Government Support for Tourism and Infrastructure Development in Key Meetings with Union Ministers

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu recently held crucial meetings with Union Ministers in New Delhi, seeking significant assistance to accelerate the state’s infrastructure development and boost its tourism sector. During discussions with Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, the Chief Minister highlighted the state’s urgent need for central support in executing several key projects aimed at enhancing its tourism appeal and strengthening its road networks.

In his meeting with Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, the Chief Minister underscored Himachal Pradesh’s potential as a premier tourist destination and requested financial backing for the development of new, integrated tourist spots. He explained that the state government is keen to submit Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) to the Government of India in the coming weeks. One of the major projects proposed includes the construction of a wellness centre-cum-health resort at Dehra in Kangra district, alongside an integrated tourism complex at Auhar in Bilaspur.

Chief Minister Sukhu further emphasized the state’s efforts to promote water sports at the Pong Dam and Bhakra Dam reservoirs, which hold significant potential to attract adventure enthusiasts and tourists. He highlighted that the Himachal government is prioritizing sustainable tourism by focusing on infrastructure development and improved connectivity, specifically mentioning plans to expand Kangra airport and build heliports across district headquarters to facilitate high-end tourism. Sukhu also called on the Union Minister to assist in the construction of golf courses and sought timely funds for the ongoing development of the Pong Dam reservoir under the Swadesh Darshan 2.0 scheme.

Moreover, the Chief Minister raised the issue of the Chintpurni temple complex’s development under the Prashad Scheme, noting that a revised DPR had already been submitted to the Government of India. He urged Shekhawat to expedite the sanctioning of funds for this vital religious and cultural project. The Union Minister assured speedy clearance and timely financial support for these initiatives, promising to prioritize the establishment of iconic tourist centers within the next month.

In a separate meeting with Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, Chief Minister Sukhu discussed a range of road, bridge, and ropeway projects crucial for improving the state’s infrastructure. Stressing the importance of roads in a hilly state like Himachal Pradesh, Sukhu presented proposals for four new road projects and sought liberal financial assistance from the central government. He pointed out the need to strengthen the road network, which he described as the “lifeline” of the hill state, essential for both tourism and the overall development of the region.

Sukhu further requested a review of the realignment of the Solan-Parwanoo road, citing safety concerns due to numerous blind spots and dangerous curves, which have resulted in frequent accidents. He suggested that the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) explore tunneling options to reduce long-term maintenance costs and improve road safety. Additionally, the Chief Minister urged Gadkari to consider the four-laning of the remaining portions of the Shimla-Mataur national highway to facilitate smoother travel.

The discussions with Gadkari also touched on the importance of ropeways for easing transportation challenges in mountainous regions. The Union Minister assured full support for Himachal Pradesh’s infrastructure needs and expressed the central government’s commitment to assisting the state with its ambitious road and ropeway development plans.

Both meetings underscore the Himachal Pradesh government’s focus on leveraging central support to boost tourism and infrastructure, positioning the state as a premier destination for both domestic and international visitors while ensuring sustainable growth and safety. With promises of swift action and financial backing from the Union Ministers, these projects could pave the way for significant improvements in the state’s connectivity and tourism landscape.

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