Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh announced that the Union Government has sanctioned Rs 36.67 billion for the upgrade of roads, bridges, and related infrastructure across Himachal Pradesh for 2024–25.
The funding, part of the annual central proposal, includes key upgrades such as carriageway widening, installation of crash barriers, and bridge construction across national highways in the state. This marks a significant rise compared to the Rs 2.69 billion received in 2023–24, against a request of Rs 26 billion. The increased allocation follows recent discussions with Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari.
The projects will cover approx. 1,200 km of highways across the hilly state. Major approvals include Rs 14.52 billion for the construction of a tunnel beneath Jalori Jot on NH-305, aimed at improving connectivity and boosting tourism. Another Rs 1.35 billion has been allocated for a new bridge at Brauni Nala on NH-5, replacing the one damaged during recent monsoons. Additionally, Rs 13.85 billion has been earmarked for four-laning the Kala Amb–Paonta Sahib–Dehradun corridor.