Himachal govt to send 273 road projects to Centre

Representational image (Photo: Wikimedia Commons)


The Himachal Pradesh government would soon submit 273 road projects to Union Rural Development ministry to enhance connectivity in rural areas of the state.

After the meeting of standing committee on Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojna (PMSGY), Chief Secretary VC Pharka said that the government has approved a proposal of 273 new roads projects of 1613 kilometers length and 14 bridges at a cost of Rs 1,003 Crore.

“The government has approved the new shelf of roads which include 44 proposals of new connectivity (Stage-I) of Rs 211 Crore, new connectivity (Stage-I&II) of Rs 246 Crore, 14 left out or missing bridges, new connectivity (stage-II) amounting to Rs 391 Crore and up-gradation of 36 roads at a cost of Rs 128 Crore.

Stressing on the need for better road connectivity in remote rural areas of the state, Pharka directed the Finance department to release state share as per new funding pattern.

“As per the revised funding pattern for Himalayan states, the ratio of 90:10 between Centre and state is being followed,” he said, adding the state will have to contribute 10 per cent of the total amount.

He said the Union Rural Development ministry has taken a decision to complete the connectivity mandate of balance eligible habitations under PMGSY by March 2019 against the earlier target year of 2022. The government was committed to provide connectivity to all eligible habitations, provided people donated land, he added.