PWD Minister Advocates for Enhanced Infrastructure and Connectivity Between Himachal and Uttarakhand.

Public Works and Urban Development Minister Vikramaditya Singh met with Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami in Dehradun on Wednesday to discuss improvements in infrastructure and connectivity between Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.

During the meeting, Singh highlighted the urgent need for refurbishing the Yamuna Bridge (Paonta Sahib), which is critical for linking the two states. The bridge, showing signs of fissures and heavy vibrations during vehicle movements, was slated for rehabilitation, approved by the Ministry of Road, Transport and Highways on December 22, 2020. The State PWD awarded the ₹1.44 crore contract for the work on September 18, 2021, but delays have occurred due to the need for a two-month closure to replace bearings.

To facilitate the repair, Singh emphasized the necessity of a comprehensive traffic diversion plan to ensure uninterrupted movement of passengers and goods. He urged immediate coordination between the two states to finalize this plan.

Singh also called for expediting the construction of the Naitwar (Uttarakhand) to Pujarli (HP) road, which is essential for maintaining connectivity to remote areas during winter and monsoon seasons. The current lack of connectivity due to harsh weather conditions affects residents in Dodra Kawar, who face isolation.

In addition, Singh and Dhami discussed the progress of National Highways construction and its strategic importance for strengthening connectivity between the states. They also addressed recent calamities and unique challenges faced by hilly regions, agreeing to jointly present these issues to the Union Government to seek special attention for disaster-prone and weather-affected areas.

Later, Singh facilitated a telephonic conversation between Chief Ministers Thakur Sukhvinder Singh of Himachal Pradesh and Dhami, where they further discussed the pressing issues and coordinated efforts to address them.

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