Himachal Pradesh’s Ambitious Infrastructure Plans
Introduction
Himachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and Transport Minister, Mukesh Agnihotri, has unveiled a grand vision for the state’s infrastructure. This includes the Shimla Ropeway project, railway developments, and improvements to the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC).
Shimla Ropeway Project
The Shimla Ropeway is set to be India’s longest at 14 kilometers and the second largest in the world after Bolivia. It aims to ease traffic congestion in Shimla, especially during peak tourist seasons. The project is expected to create direct employment for 250 people and indirect employment for over 20,000. With a budget of Rs 1,734 crores, the project will feature 660 trolleys and 13 stations, transporting around 6,000 passengers per hour.
Railway Developments
Deputy CM Agnihotri emphasized the state’s commitment to enhancing railway connectivity. Two key railway lines, the Bhanupali-Bilaspur-Beri line and the Chandigarh-Baddi line, are in focus. The Bhanupali-Bilaspur-Beri line’s costs have increased due to land acquisition issues, raising the state’s share to Rs 2,583 crores. Agnihotri called for the Union government to fund this line as a strategic defense project.
HRTC Overhaul
Plans for the HRTC include procuring 327 electric buses to modernize the fleet. Despite financial challenges from subsidized rides, HRTC remains crucial for the community, especially during emergencies and festivals. Agnihotri highlighted the importance of public support for HRTC’s initiatives, including new tracking facilities for better service management.
Conclusion
These infrastructure projects reflect the Himachal Pradesh government’s dedication to improving transport efficiency, boosting tourism, and fostering economic development, elevating the state’s profile nationally and internationally.
Doubts Revealed
Himachal Pradesh -: Himachal Pradesh is a state in northern India, known for its beautiful mountains and hill stations like Shimla and Manali.
Deputy CM -: Deputy CM stands for Deputy Chief Minister, who is the second-highest-ranking official in a state government in India, assisting the Chief Minister.
Shimla Ropeway -: The Shimla Ropeway is a planned cable car system in Shimla, which will help people travel easily over the hilly terrain and reduce traffic congestion.
Railway Developments -: Railway developments refer to new railway lines or improvements to existing ones, which help in better transportation and connectivity.
Bhanupali-Bilaspur-Beri line -: This is a proposed railway line in Himachal Pradesh that aims to connect different regions for better travel and is being considered for defense purposes.
HRTC -: HRTC stands for Himachal Road Transport Corporation, which is responsible for public bus services in Himachal Pradesh.
Electric buses -: Electric buses are buses that run on electricity instead of diesel or petrol, making them more environmentally friendly.
Subsidized rides -: Subsidized rides mean that the government helps pay part of the cost of bus tickets, making them cheaper for passengers.