Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu today laid the foundation stone of Phase-II of the historic Ellerslie Building in Shimla. The project, estimated to cost Rs. 19.72 crore, is scheduled for completion by April 2026.
The upcoming six-storied structure will include three floors for parking, two floors designated for Secretariat offices and other amenities. Once completed, the facility is expected to significantly decongest the Secretariat complex and enhance accessibility for the public.
The Chief Minister said that the new infrastructure will streamline public movement, provide better amenities and help reduce traffic congestion along the circular road. Interacting with the media, the Chief Minister stated that the state government is open to any form of investigation.
“If the Enforcement Directorate (ED) can conduct raids in Nadaun, then who is stopping the CBI from carrying out an investigation” he remarked. He accused the BJP of politicizing the issue related to the unfortunate death of Chief Engineer Vimal Negi and assured that the state government is committed to a fair and transparent inquiry.
He added that the government is treating the matter with utmost sensitivity and seriousness. “Everyone wants to know the truth behind Vimal Negi’s death. His wife has also met me and we stand in full sympathy and solidarity with the bereaved family,” the Chief Minister said.
Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Anirudh Singh, MLAs Mohan Lal Brakta, Sunder Singh Thakur, Harish Janartha, Principal Media Advisor to the Chief Minister Naresh Chauhan, Mayor of Shimla Municipal Corporation Surender Chauhan, Deputy Mayor Uma Kaushal, Additional Chief Secretary Kamlesh Kumar Pant, Secretaries Rajesh Sharma and Priyanka Basu, along with other senior officers were present on the occasion.