Housing and Town and Country Planning Minister Rajesh Dharmani has directed the H.P Housing and Urban Development Authority (HIMUDA) to expedite execution of all ongoing and proposed development projects while ensuring transparency, efficiency and public-centric service delivery. While presiding over the 59th Meeting of the Board of Directors of HIMUDA here today, the Minister reviewed the progress of various housing and infrastructure projects being undertaken by the Authority across the State.
Stressing the need for timely completion of projects, he directed to accelerate implementation so that the benefits of quality housing and urban infrastructure reach the people at the earliest. Shri Dharmani instructed HIMUDA to dispose of its commercial and residential properties located at various places through a transparent auction process.
He emphasized that the Authority should actively promote the ease of doing business by simplifying procedures, adopting citizen-friendly practices and focusing on the development of affordable housing to meet the aspirations of the people. The Board approved the annual work plan and budget estimates amounting to Rs. 251 crore including a provision of Rs. 52 crore for land procurement to facilitate future housing and urban development projects.
The Minister said that strategic land acquisition would strengthen HIMUDA's capacity to undertake planned development in the coming years. The Board also approved one-time settlement policy for the HIMUDA colony at Rakkar phase-IV in Una district, providing relief to eligible allottees and facilitating resolution of long-pending issues.
It was informed during the meeting that against the budget estimates of Rs. 117 crore for the financial year 2025–26, HIMUDA achieved a turnover of Rs. 200 crore which reflects its improved financial performance and operational efficiency. To strengthen institutional capacity, the Board approved amendments in the Contractor Enlistment Rules on the lines of those followed by the HP Public Works department.
The Board also accorded approval for giving a modern corporate look to the HIMUDA head office at Nigam Vihar, Shimla, aimed at improving the working environment and enhancing public service delivery. Chief Executive Officer, HIMUDA Surender Vashist presented a detailed overview of achievements, progress of ongoing projects and future development plans of HIMUDA.
Secretary (Housing) Amarjeet Singh, Vice Chairman, HIMUDA, Yashwant Chhajta, Special Secretary (Finance) Vijaywardhan along with official and non-official members of the Board Jitender chandel, Pradeep Surya and Rajesh Baniyal attended the meeting.