CM Sukhu inaugurates, lays foundation stones of 12 projects worth Rs 90.66 crore in Solan
Shimla, June 25
Himachal Pradesh's Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sikhu on Thursday inaugurated and laid foundation stones of 12 development projects worth Rs 90.66 crore at Neri Kalan in Kasauli Assembly constituency of Solan district, reinforcing the state government's focus on infrastructure expansion and public utility development in rural and semi-urban areas.
The Chief Minister inaugurated projects, including a Rs 12.92 crore, 45-metre span double-lane arch bridge over Gamber Khad on the Shalaghat-Arki-Kunihar-Barotiwala road, a Rs 3.42 crore Block Development Officer (BDO) office building at Dharampur, and a Rs 51 lakh Science Block at PM Shri Government Senior Secondary School, Pratha.
He also laid foundation stones for several key road and infrastructure projects, including the Kaushalya Dam near Datyar, to be constructed for Rs 20.83 crore, and the Rs 16.24 crore improvement and strengthening of the Kimmughat to Chaki ka Mod road. Other projects include Rs 6.33 crore Jangeshu to Auda via Bhanet road, Rs 7.03 crore upgradation of Groni to Sari road via Bohron, Rs 3.77 crore metalling and tarring of Shaheed Sudesh Marg from Subathu to Chapla via Shadyana, Rs 3.48 crore link road from Rehala to Mathan via Shard, Rs 8.06 crore strengthening of Deothi Barah Koon road, Rs 5 crore upgradation of Dharampur-Kasauli road, and Rs 3.08 crore Nagali to Chewa road under PMGSY-IV.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said the state government is prioritising connectivity and education infrastructure in rural belts. He said, "The government is committed to ensuring balanced development across all regions of Himachal Pradesh. Roads, bridges and education facilities are being strengthened to improve ease of living for people."
He further added, "These projects will not only improve connectivity but also boost local economic activity and create better opportunities for the youth."
Officials present at the event said the newly announced and inaugurated projects are expected to significantly improve road connectivity in the Kasauli region and enhance access to essential services for nearby villages.
The Chief Minister reiterated that the government is working with a long-term vision for sustainable infrastructure development, particularly in hill regions where connectivity plays a crucial role in socio-economic growth.
The event saw participation from local representatives, administrative officials and residents of the area, who welcomed the announcements and expressed hope for faster implementation of the projects.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Rs 90 crore is a lot, but when you see it spread over 12 projects, it makes sense – roads, schools, a dam. The Science Block at PM Shri School in Pratha is a smart move. We need to invest in rural education if we want our kids to stay and build careers in Himachal rather than moving to cities.
Good projects, but I hope the state government also focuses on maintenance. We've seen many roads being built but then falling apart in 2-3 years. The Dharampur-Kasauli road upgradation (Rs 5 crore) sounds promising – that stretch is always jammed during tourist season. Let's see if they can deliver on time. 🙏
Happy to see the BDO office building at Dharampur getting approval. Government offices in rural areas often function from rented, cramped spaces. A proper building means better service delivery for villagers. Also, the Kaushalya Dam near Datyar will help with water security – very practical in a hilly state where water scarcity is an issue in summer.
As someone who works in the tourism sector, I appreciate the focus on road connectivity. The Shaheed Sudesh Marg from Subathu to Chapla and the Dharampur-Kasauli road will open up new routes for trekkers and tourists. But infrastructure alone isn't enough – we also need public toilets, clean water points, and signages along these roads for them to be truly tourist-friendly.
Good to see PMGSY-IV projects like the Nagali to Chewa road. Rural roads under this scheme have transformed connectivity in remote Himachal villages. But I wish the CM
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