New Delhi: Himachal Pradesh Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Vikramaditya Singh on Thursday met Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari in New Delhi and secured key assurances for several major road infrastructure projects aimed at improving connectivity across the state.
During the meeting, Vikramaditya Singh informed that the Union Minister has approved, in principle, the release of ₹25.11 crore for the improvement and tarring of the Banjar–Aut stretch on National Highway-305 (Sainj–Luhri–Banjar–Aut road). The project is expected to enhance road conditions and provide smoother connectivity for residents and tourists in the region.
The PWD Minister also urged the Centre to expedite the approval of the ₹1,775-crore Jalori Tunnel project, describing it as a critical infrastructure initiative for improving year-round connectivity in the state. Responding positively, Nitin Gadkari directed officials of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways to accelerate the sanctioning process for the ambitious tunnel project.
Vikramaditya Singh also sought ₹395 crore for the improvement of the NH-303 Nagrota Bagwan–Ranital road. The Union Minister agreed in principle to the proposal, paving the way for further progress on the project.
Expressing gratitude to the Union Minister, Vikramaditya Singh also thanked him for approving two important road projects worth ₹239.45 crore under the Central Road and Infrastructure Fund (CRIF) for the financial year 2026-27. The sanctioned projects include the upgradation of the Tikar–Jarol–Gahan–Nankhadi–Khamadi road and the Chaila–Neripul–Yashwant Nagar–Kumarhatti road.
The PWD Minister said these projects would significantly improve connectivity in Himachal Pradesh’s apple-growing regions, facilitating the transportation of horticultural produce and providing better access for local residents.
During the meeting, Vikramaditya Singh also requested the allocation of ₹3.46 crore for bridge construction under the Setu Bandhan Project. He further appealed for the sanction of additional road projects under both the CRIF and Setu Bandhan schemes, emphasising that roads remain the primary mode of transportation in the mountainous state.
The Minister also urged the Centre to enhance Himachal Pradesh’s annual allocation under the CRIF to ₹200 crore, citing the growing need for improved road infrastructure across the hill state.
Assuring full support to Himachal Pradesh, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari said the Centre would extend all possible assistance for the state’s road infrastructure development and connectivity projects.
