Boosting Rural Connectivity: Himachal Pradesh Gets ₹140 Crore for Bridge Projects
The central government has given a green light to bridge projects worth over ₹140 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY)-III for Himachal Pradesh. This exciting news was shared by Vikramaditya Singh, the PWD Minister in the Sukhvinder government of Himachal Pradesh.
Minister Vikramaditya Singh announced, “The Ministry of Rural Development has approved bridge projects worth over ₹140 crore proposed by the state government under PMGSY-III.”
These approved projects, part of Batch-I of PMGSY-III for the year 2024-25, include the construction and upgrading of 21 bridges, costing ₹140.90 crore.
An official statement highlighted that ₹126.81 crore will be provided by the Ministry of Rural Development, while the state government will contribute ₹14.09 crore. These projects aim to significantly enhance rural connectivity, especially in the districts of Hamirpur, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, and Lahaul and Spiti. The approval came after recommendations from an empowered committee and the compliance report submitted by the state government.
Vikramaditya Singh emphasized that these bridges will offer all-weather connectivity in remote areas, strengthening the road network. Several bridges in Himachal Pradesh have been approved for upgrading to improve road connectivity, including a 110-meter long double-lane motorable bridge over the Beas River in Pandoh, Mandi district.
Expressing gratitude, Vikramaditya Singh thanked Union Minister of Rural Development, Shivraj Singh Chauhan, for approving these projects. He mentioned that the approval comes with specific conditions to ensure the highest quality standards. Before issuing tenders, the state government will verify hydraulic data, calculate the catchment area, conduct geotechnical investigations, and validate structural designs.
To ensure smooth execution, a bridge management cell with expert manpower will be established. The government will also deploy independent inspectors and ensure rigorous quality checks, including pile integrity tests and acceptance load tests, as per the norms of the Indian Road Congress (IRC).
