Foundation Laid for New Development Projects in Chamba
Major Initiatives Unveiled in Chamba
Subhash Mahajan
Chamba
Today, Assembly Speaker Kuldeep Singh Pathania inaugurated the foundation stones for two significant projects under the Chamba Municipal Council: an additional office building and a guest house with a residential complex, with a projected budget of ₹2 crore.
During a public event held at the Municipal Council premises, Pathania highlighted the rich historical and cultural heritage of Chamba, emphasizing its famous art and folk traditions. He underscored the government's commitment to enhancing development in the district, particularly in tourism sectors such as religious, adventure, and health tourism.
Pathania also revealed that the long-anticipated Chamba–Chuwari tunnel project, estimated to cost ₹2,600 crore, is set to begin by October 2026. This 14-km tunnel, developed under a PPP model, aims to shorten travel times, enhance connectivity, and support environmental conservation efforts.
He reminisced about the contributions of former Chief Ministers Dr. Y.S. Parmar and Virbhadra Singh in advancing Himachal Pradesh's infrastructure in roads, education, and healthcare. Pathania also commended the current government's welfare programs, including the Mukhyamantri Sukh Ashray Yojana, which offers state support for orphaned children.
Earlier, Municipal Council Executive Officer Rakhi Kaushal welcomed the Speaker and shared updates on ongoing development initiatives. The event also featured participation from the Press Club Chamba, which honored dignitaries and sought financial assistance for the renovation of its newly allocated rooms. Pathania instructed the Deputy Commissioner to allocate necessary funds.
Local MLA Neeraj Nair addressed the audience, detailing government investments in Chamba, which include:
- ₹175 crore for the first phase of the Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru Government Medical College building, and ₹194 crore for the second phase.
- ₹36 crore for the forthcoming Mini Secretariat building.
- DPRs worth ₹50 crore submitted to ADB for approval.
- Progress on a multi-storey parking facility at the old bus stand and an indoor stadium near Police Ground.
- ₹7.5 crore allocated for reviving the city’s hydrant system and ₹5 crore for irrigation channels in Sahu.
The ceremony was attended by senior Congress leaders, district officials, and community representatives, including MLA Neeraj Nair and his wife Bharti Nair, DCC President Surjeet Bharmauri, DC Mukesh Repaswal, SP Vijay Saklani, and other departmental heads.