Shimla: Road and bridge construction projects worth more than ₹880 crore in Himachal Pradesh will now be executed by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), marking a significant development in the implementation of infrastructure works across the state.
The Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for these projects were prepared by the National Highways wing of the Public Works Department (PWD), whose officials also played a key role in securing the necessary approvals from the Central government. Following the approvals, the projects have come under the purview of NHAI for execution.
The projects cover National Highways falling under the Chamba, Hamirpur, Rampur and Nahan divisions and include new construction, road strengthening, repairs, maintenance and bridge construction.
According to the details provided, the works include original construction projects worth ₹459.44 crore, Performance-Based Maintenance Contracts (PBMC) valued at ₹201.18 crore and other works amounting to ₹93.16 crore. In addition, a bridge project costing approximately ₹127 crore has also been included.
Together, these components account for approximately ₹880.78 crore, taking the total project outlay to more than ₹880 crore.
Several projects have already moved towards implementation. While construction work on some has commenced, tenders for others have been finalised and contracts awarded, paving the way for further progress on road infrastructure development in the state.
Officials of the PWD’s National Highways wing undertook the process of preparing DPRs for the strengthening, repair and construction of various highway stretches before pursuing the required approvals at the Ministry level. They addressed objections raised during the scrutiny of the project reports and made repeated visits to Delhi to expedite clearances and ensure that the proposals could move forward.
Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh also raised the matter with the Central government to facilitate approval of the projects, according to the information provided.
The transfer of these works to NHAI is expected to advance the execution of important highway infrastructure projects across the four divisions. The projects are aimed at improving road conditions, strengthening existing stretches and supporting connectivity in the state’s hilly terrain.
With some works already underway and others moving through the tendering and award stages, the focus will now be on timely execution and ensuring that the approved infrastructure projects translate into improved road connectivity for residents and commuters across Himachal Pradesh.
