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Munish Sood
Mandi

A significant urban development initiative for Himachal Pradesh has been disclosed through a comprehensive social media update by state leader Vikramaditya Singh, following his attendance at a crucial meeting with Union Urban Development Minister Manohar Lal Khattar.

Singh characterized the meeting as productive and optimistic, announcing that projects valued at approximately ₹1,200 crore will be launched under the Urban Challenge Fund (UCF) to enhance urban infrastructure throughout the mountainous state.

The proposed projects, as detailed in Singh's post, encompass strategies to alleviate congestion in Shimla, the creation of modern parking facilities, and the introduction of smart mobility solutions. Additionally, plans are in place to establish new smart townships in vital areas like Kangra and Baddi.

These initiatives aim to boost urban efficiency while ensuring environmental sustainability.

Singh pointed out that the state has requested the central government to consider more flexible funding guidelines for hilly regions, highlighting the distinct challenges presented by the mountainous landscape. He stressed the importance of adopting a 'functional population' model for budget distribution, which would factor in both the local population and the significant influx of tourists each year.