SHIMLA- Public Works Minister, Vikramaditya Singh in a meeting directed PWD officers to ensure maintenance of link roads for the upcoming apple season. As many as 14 road in Shimla demand immediate attention and seeks Rs 3.5 Crore fund and approval from the CM, he said.
The commuters complaint that the potholes of Chopal- Deha stretch of the state highway are being filled up with "earth" that has started coming out prior to the starting of monsoon season, not with tarring material as should be the norm for the state highway.
The aim was to help orchardists transport their produce easily.
The minister, however, stated that 14 roads in Shimla Circle needed attention, and immediate expenditure of Rs. 3.50 crore was required.
If more funds were needed, they would seek approval from the Chief Minister.
They instructed all officers to work together and complete any necessary repairs on time.
The meeting also addressed urgent needs for the apple season, including procuring JCB machines at the division level. Roads in Kotkhai, Chopal, Kotgarh, Kumarsain, and other apple-growing areas were identified as needing immediate repairs. The meeting mentioned that the APMC released Rs. 3.48 crore for doubling the road leading to Parala Market Yard, and 80% of the work was already done.
The Minister highlighted the importance of widening roads to create parking space. They discussed the checkpoint at Bhatakuffar near the marketing yard and assured assistance to address horticulturists' concerns. The Minister also instructed the placement of signs in accident-prone areas.
They discussed the progress of the Chaila road widening project and proposed establishing a control room in Theog for smooth vehicle operations during the apple season. They also suggested setting up sub-control rooms and checkpoints at various locations. The responsibility for maintaining Panchayat and village-level link roads will be shared with the Rural Development department through Block Development Officers.
The Executive Engineer in Chopal was directed to focus on rural roads under their jurisdiction during the apple season and deploy sufficient manpower and machinery.
The Finance Department promised to provide expedited support for the PWD's initiatives. The Superintendent of Police raised safety and operational efficiency concerns, and collaborative efforts were discussed. The Minister appreciated the officials' work in maintaining roads and expressed satisfaction on behalf of the state government.
The PWD Minister thanked all stakeholders for their involvement and expressed hope for a successful apple season with well-maintained road infrastructure.
