Himachal, Uttarakhand Ministers Push for Improved Infrastructure and Connectivity

Dehradun/Shimla: To step up infrastructure and connectivity between Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, Himachal’s Public Works and Urban Development Minister, Vikramaditya Singh, met with Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami in Dehradun recently.

The key focus of their discussion was the urgent need to refurbish the Yamuna Bridge near Paonta Sahib, a critical link between the two states.

Singh highlighted concerns over the bridge's structural integrity, citing signs of fissures and heavy vibrations during vehicle movement.

Approved for rehabilitation in December 2020 with a budget of ₹1.44 crore, the project has faced delays due to the need for a two-month closure to replace bearings.

Singh urged immediate coordination between the states to finalize a traffic diversion plan, ensuring minimal disruption during the repair work.

Additionally, Singh pressed for the expedited construction of the Naitwar (Uttarakhand) to Pujarli (Himachal) road, crucial for connecting remote areas like Dodra Kawar, especially during harsh winters and adverse weather conditions.

He also discussed ongoing National Highway projects that share boundaries between the two states, emphasizing their strategic importance.

In a follow-up call, Himachal Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu and CM Dhami also discussed recent natural calamities and the unique challenges faced by their states.

They agreed to present these issues jointly to the Union Government, advocating for special attention to disaster-prone regions.