PWD Minister Vikramaditya Singh Seeks Enhanced Central Support for Urban Development in Himachal Pradesh

PWD Minister Vikramaditya Singh recently met with Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs, Manohar Lal, in New Delhi to discuss pressing urban development needs in Himachal Pradesh. During the meeting, Vikramaditya Singh emphasized the unique challenges faced by the state due to its difficult terrain and relatively small urban population, urging the Union Minister to reconsider the criteria set under the Urban Challenge Fund. He proposed a more favorable 90:10 funding ratio for the state, highlighting that the current requirements make it challenging for Himachal Pradesh’s cities to qualify for essential redevelopment support.

Vikramaditya Singh pointed out that the state has already launched the “Citizen Service Portal” as part of the National Urban Digital Mission to improve urban governance and provide efficient services to its residents. However, he stressed that the state government’s financial resources allocated for this initiative would be depleted by March 2025. To ensure the project’s successful implementation over the next five years, he requested an additional Rs. 70 crore from the Government of India. The portal is aimed at simplifying access to public services and enhancing transparency in governance, making it a crucial project for the state’s urban centers.

In addition to this, the PWD Minister sought Rs. 3.28 crore to clear outstanding liabilities under the National Urban Livelihood Mission (NULM). The NULM is a significant program designed to improve the livelihoods of urban poor by providing skill development, self-employment opportunities, and improved access to credit. Addressing these liabilities, according to Singh, is necessary to maintain the momentum of various ongoing urban poverty alleviation projects across the state.

Recognizing the growing need for improved urban infrastructure, Singh also appealed for special financial assistance for the construction of parking facilities and other essential urban infrastructure projects. He highlighted that the steep and hilly terrain of Himachal Pradesh poses additional challenges in managing urban spaces, particularly with the increasing influx of tourists and expanding urban populations. Adequate parking spaces and upgraded infrastructure would not only ease congestion but also boost tourism and local businesses.

Responding positively to the requests, Union Minister Manohar Lal assured all possible assistance to the state. He acknowledged the unique challenges faced by Himachal Pradesh and expressed the central government’s willingness to consider the proposals sympathetically. The assurance of support has raised hopes for enhanced funding and faster implementation of key urban projects in the state.

The meeting has been seen as a significant step towards securing central funds for urban development in Himachal Pradesh, promising a brighter and more sustainable urban future for the state.

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