Inauguration of Major Water Supply Projects in Dalhousie

Government's Commitment to Water Infrastructure

Subhash Mahajan
Dalhousie

Today, Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri launched and laid the groundwork for three significant initiatives by the Jal Shakti Department in the Dalhousie area, with a total investment of ₹96.32 crore.

He officially opened the Dalhousie Drinking Water Scheme (Improvement & Expansion), which cost ₹67.60 crore, and the Dalhousie Drinking Water Scheme (Augmentation & Alha Water Storage Improvement), valued at ₹25.70 crore. Additionally, he laid the foundation for the Dalhousie Sewerage Scheme (Diversion & Obstruction Removal), estimated at ₹3 crore.

Speaking to a crowd at Paridhi Grih, Dalhousie, Agnihotri reaffirmed the state government's dedication to establishing a modern and efficient drinking water and sanitation system. He pointed out that substantial advancements have been made in this area over the last three years.

He also highlighted Dalhousie's potential for tourism, stating that the city's water supply has been increased to accommodate future demands. The previous capacity of 40 lakh liters per day has now been enhanced to 80 lakh liters per day, resulting in a total capacity of 120 lakh liters per day.

The initiatives encompass the installation of 220 km of water supply pipelines and the construction of 26 storage tanks, along with modern water treatment facilities, pumping stations, and distribution systems. These improvements will serve the residents of the Dalhousie Municipal Council, the cantonment area, the Air Force station, and nearby regions.

Agnihotri further mentioned that projects worth ₹315 crore under the Jal Shakti Department are currently underway in the Dalhousie constituency. The sewerage scheme is anticipated to be completed by 2027.

In response to community requests, he announced the initiation of a Dalhousie–Pathankot Volvo bus service. Former minister Asha Kumari welcomed him, presenting him with a shawl, cap, and memento. She also urged the Punjab government to accelerate the upgrade of National Highway-154A, requested new buses for Chamba district, and emphasized the need for expedited forest clearance for the construction of the Dalhousie bus stand.

Notable Attendees

The event saw the presence of social worker Bharti Nayyir, PCC General Secretary Amit Bharmauri, Bhalei Mata Committee President Kamal Thakur, former Zila Parishad Chairman Dharam Singh Pathania, District Congress Committee President Surjit Bharmauri, Block Congress Committee President Amit Sharma, SDM Anil Bhardwaj, Chief Engineer Jal Shakti (Northern Zone) Deepak Garg, Superintending Engineer Rajesh Mogra, among other dignitaries.