Himachal Deputy CM Advocates for Enhanced Road Infrastructure in Meeting with Union Minister Gadkari
Advocacy for Road Infrastructure Improvements
Himachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri recently met with Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari in New Delhi to discuss critical infrastructure and transportation challenges facing the state.
During their discussion, Agnihotri expressed his appreciation for Gadkari's ongoing support and emphasized the state's heavy reliance on road and bridge infrastructure due to its difficult terrain. He stated, “Enhancing road connectivity is vital for improving the living standards and economic prospects of the residents of Himachal Pradesh.”
Agnihotri raised concerns regarding the Transport Department, urging Gadkari to consider extending the validity of All India Taxi Permits from the current 12 years to 15 years. He justified this request by noting that the lifespan of vehicles has already been established at 15 years.
Gadkari responded favorably, agreeing to review the proposal and instructed the relevant authorities to begin the necessary procedures.
Additionally, Agnihotri requested the prompt release of pending funds totaling Rs 7.63 crore under the 'Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment', particularly for the component that encourages the scrapping of old vehicles. Gadkari assured that his ministry would expedite the fund disbursement.
Agnihotri also sought the designation of the Nangal-Jaijon road as a National Highway, highlighting its strategic significance for the forthcoming Bulk Drug Park. He informed Gadkari that a Detailed Project Report (DPR) worth Rs 429 crore had been prepared and would be submitted under the Centre’s Gati Shakti scheme. The Union Minister instructed his team to evaluate the proposal accordingly.
Furthermore, Agnihotri requested an extension of the proposed four-laning of NH 503A, which is currently planned from Amritsar to Hoshiarpur, to include a 15-km stretch up to Jhaleda via Bankhandi. This extension would greatly improve access to significant religious sites such as Shri Anandpur Sahib and Mata Chintpurni. Gadkari assured that this proposal would be considered.
On the longstanding issue of enhancing road connectivity between Chandigarh and the Baddi industrial area, Gadkari indicated that the matter is currently under active review by the Centre.
Lastly, Agnihotri sought urgent approval for upgrading the link road from Jaijon Modh to Tahliwal Chowk via Bhai Ka Modh, which includes three bridges, under the Central Road and Infrastructure Fund (CRIF) at an estimated cost of Rs 48.69 crore. The Union Minister confirmed that this proposal would be prioritized for approval.