Deputy Chief Minister Agnihotri Unveils ₹150 Crore Development Package in Nagrota Bagwan
Major Development Initiatives Launched
Nagrota Bagwan
On Friday, Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri announced an extensive development initiative valued at approximately ₹150 crore for the Nagrota Bagwan area. This initiative includes the inauguration and foundation laying of various drinking water, irrigation, and sewerage projects. Additionally, he introduced 10 new electric buses and revealed plans for hiring drivers and conductors for the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC).
Enhancing Water Supply and Sanitation
During his visit, Agnihotri inaugurated the ₹25-crore Massal drinking water project at Pathiyar, which is set to benefit over 20,000 residents across 40 villages in eight panchayats. The project includes a 133-km pipeline.
He also laid the groundwork for a ₹76-crore sewerage project at Keerchamba, which will serve five panchayats and address long-standing sanitation issues.
Irrigation and Infrastructure Improvements
Lift irrigation projects worth ₹6.35 crore were initiated at Baldhar and Singhund, aimed at irrigating 135 hectares of agricultural land. In Baroh, Agnihotri conducted a bhoomi pujan for the renovation of five outdated drinking water schemes, funded by the Asian Development Bank, with a budget of ₹35 crore and a completion target of November 30.
Advancing Eco-Friendly Transportation
Agnihotri flagged off 10 electric buses from the Nagrota Bagwan bus station and took a bus ride to Baroh. He emphasized that this initiative would enhance local connectivity and promote environmentally friendly public transport. The government has already added 297 electric buses to the HRTC fleet and plans to acquire an additional 1,000 electric buses, along with 200 new diesel buses for long-distance services.
HRTC Recruitment and Upgrades
In his announcement regarding the recruitment of drivers and conductors, Agnihotri highlighted the importance of HRTC as a vital service for Himachal Pradesh. He mentioned that 500 older buses are being retired, employees have been regularized, and the Old Pension Scheme has been reinstated.
Acknowledgment of R.S. Bali's Contributions
Agnihotri commended Nagrota MLA and HPTDC Chairman R.S. Bali for continuing the developmental legacy of his father, former minister G.S. Bali. He noted that Nagrota Bagwan has emerged as a symbol of development and recognized Bali as a proactive representative whose influence will grow in the political landscape of Kangra district.
Commitment to Essential Services
In his addresses to the public, Agnihotri reiterated the government's commitment to prioritizing drinking water, irrigation, and public transport—key sectors that significantly affect daily life. R.S. Bali expressed gratitude to the Deputy CM and acknowledged the contributions of party workers and the community towards the constituency's advancement.