SHIMLA: Government of India has given the nod for the upgradation of 254 roads in rural areas, marking a major step towards enhancing rural connectivity.

Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh announced that an impressive sum of Rs. 2643.01 crore has been allocated for this purpose under Batch-1 of Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY-III) for the fiscal year 2023-24.

The move is set to bring about a transformation in the rural landscape, with a total road length spanning approximately 2683 km scheduled for upgrading. The Central Government's contribution stands at Rs. 2372.59 crore, while the State will invest Rs. 270.42 crore in this endeavor.

Vikramaditya Singh expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Rural Development Minister Giriraj Singh, and Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu for their relentless efforts in securing this crucial funding.

The State's persistent advocacy for its interests before the Central Government has borne fruit, as the proposal was approved during a recent Empowered Committee meeting in June 2023.

The road infrastructure in the state has faced considerable challenges due to heavy rains.

However, with the approval of PMGSY-III, a comprehensive effort will be made to enhance and uplift roads at the grassroots level, facilitating improved connectivity for rural communities, he said