The Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, has formally urged Union Minister Nitin Gadkari to declare two critical roads in the state as national highways. This request aims to enhance the infrastructure and connectivity of the region, aligning with the broader objectives of boosting economic development and improving transport facilities.
The roads in question are the Nahan-Dadahu-Haripurdhar-Shillai-Meenus-Hatkoti road and the Chamba-Bharmour road. The Nahan-Dadahu-Haripurdhar-Shillai-Meenus-Hatkoti road is pivotal for connecting several remote and economically significant areas in the state. Meanwhile, the Chamba-Bharmour road serves as a crucial link to the tribal regions, playing a vital role in facilitating movement and access to essential services for the local population.
By granting these roads national highway status, the state government hopes to secure better funding and resources for their development and maintenance. National highways receive significant attention and investment from the central government, ensuring higher standards of construction, regular maintenance, and overall better road conditions. This upgrade would significantly benefit the local economy by improving access to markets, healthcare, education, and tourism.
The Himachal Pradesh government has highlighted the strategic importance of these roads, emphasizing how enhanced connectivity could lead to substantial socio-economic benefits. Improved road infrastructure would also support the state's efforts in disaster management, providing more reliable evacuation routes and access for relief operations in the event of natural calamities.
Minister Gadkari has been responsive to infrastructure development needs across the country, and the Himachal Pradesh government's proposal is in line with the central government's vision of strengthening national connectivity. The declaration of these roads as national highways would also align with the broader goals of the Bharatmala Pariyojana, a government initiative focused on optimizing the efficiency of the movement of goods and people across the country.
In conclusion, the appeal by Himachal Pradesh's Chief Minister to Union Minister Nitin Gadkari for the elevation of two state roads to national highway status represents a significant step towards enhancing the region's infrastructure. If approved, this move will lead to improved connectivity, economic growth, and better quality of life for the residents of Himachal Pradesh.
