Himachal: Rs 293 crore to be used for upgrading road, bridge projects

Himachal Pradesh: The state government will use Rs 293 crore from the Central Road and Infrastructure Fund (CRIF) to upgrade five major projects, including upgradation of the 52-km-long Tikkar-Jarol-Gahan-Nankhari-Khamari road in Shimla district, construction of a high-level bridge over Gaj Khad in Kangra and other projects in Hamirpur and Mandi districts. “These projects will enhance connectivity and improve road safety, demonstrating the government’s commitment to progress and prosperity of all regions of the state,” a government spokesperson said. The spokesperson further said the PWD has implemented the Works Account Management Information System (WAMIS) software to modernise project management and streamline operations. The spokesperson said, “The tender process has been reduced from 51 days to 30 days, thereby reducing delays and speeding up construction of projects. Additionally, departmental engineers have been given more powers to approve high-value tenders, thereby speeding up decision-making and removing bottlenecks that had delayed work earlier.” “And those who complete quality projects within the stipulated timelines are rewarded with additional contracts, thereby ensuring accountability and maintaining high standards in PWD projects,” he added. Currently, the road network in the state extends to 41,202 km, with 34,917 km of paved roads ensuring safe and smooth travel. The PWD has also constructed 2,519 bridges and 36,762 km of cross-drainage systems. “This extensive infrastructure has connected 15,578 out of 17,882 villages in the state, bringing them closer to progress and enabling their access to essential services like markets, schools and healthcare,” the spokesperson said.