Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu laid the foundation stone of Rs. 246 crore underground Utility Duct Project in Shimla on Sunday. The project was aimed at modernizing the city’s utility infrastructure, enhancing urban aesthetics and improving public convenience.
The project envisages the construction of an integrated underground utility duct network covering Chotta Shimla-WillyPark-ChauraMaidan, Lok Bhavan-Oak Over and Sher-e-Punjab-CTO Chowk via Lower Bazar. Once completed, the project will facilitate the systematic laying and maintenance of utility services, minimize frequent road-cutting activities and significantly improve the urban landscape of the state capital.
On the occasion, the Chief Minister said that the state government is committed to developing modern, sustainable and citizen-centric urban infrastructure. He said that the underground utility duct system would enhance service delivery, reduce disruptions caused by maintenance works and contribute to making Shimla a more organized and efficient city.
Describing the initiative as a milestone in the transformation of Shimla, Sh. Sukhu said that overhead cables across the city are being shifted underground to improve its visual appeal and provide a better experience for residents and tourists alike. He said that the project would not only strengthen the city’s infrastructure but also support tourism by preserving Shimla’s heritage character and scenic beauty.
He further said that the underground utility network would simplify the maintenance of essential services and help ensure uninterrupted electricity and telecommunications connectivity in the city, particularly during heavy snowfall and adverse weather conditions.
MLA Harish Janartha, Mayor MC Shimla Surinder Chauhan, Councillors, OSD to Chief Minister Ritesh Kapret, DC Anupam Kashyap, SP Gaurav Singh and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.