Boosting tribal development: Roads, electricity, and water to get a major upgrade
Revenue Minister Calls for Accelerated Development in Himachal’s Tribal Areas Focus on Roads, Power Supply, and Building Maintenance
Revenue and Tribal Minister Jagat Singh Negi has urged officials to expedite development projects aimed at improving road connectivity, water supply, and electricity in Himachal Pradesh’s tribal regions. Chairing a review meeting at Dharamshala Circuit House with officials from Pangi and Bharmaur, the minister emphasized the need for a comprehensive action plan to uplift tribal communities.
Minister Negi highlighted that for the first time since independence, efforts are underway to connect the remote Big Bhangal area of Kangra district with proper road facilities within two years. He called for innovative solutions like tunnel construction to tackle the region’s challenging geography. Stressing that roads are the lifelines of the state, he instructed officials to prioritize paving raw roads, drafting detailed project reports (DPRs) for new roads under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, and submitting proposals for connectivity routes under NABARD.
To ensure safety and durability, the minister encouraged the adoption of modern technologies and the installation of crash barriers. He also noted that the government has enhanced financial powers for engineers and streamlined the tendering process to fast-track projects.
Accelerating Water Supply and Irrigation Projects
Minister Negi directed officials from the Irrigation and Public Health (IPH) Department to resolve delays and speed up work on pending drinking water and irrigation schemes. Strict action, he warned, will be taken against any unnecessary delays.
Strengthening Power Supply in Pangi
In the Pangi region, the minister emphasized improving electricity access during winter. He instructed the Electricity Department to bolster the 11KV grid infrastructure and ensure a reliable power supply for the residents.
Better Maintenance of Tribal Buildings
Addressing the upkeep of tribal buildings, Minister Negi issued instructions for the proper maintenance of structures in Dharamshala, Beard, and Chamba. He also urged the Public Works Department to complete ongoing construction projects, including the tribal building in Nurpur, and prepare plans for additional facilities under the Aba Dharti campaign to enhance services for tribal communities.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Commissioner Hemraj Bairwa, Residential Commissioner Pangi, and senior officials from the IPH, Public Works, and Electricity Departments.
With these efforts, the government aims to bridge gaps in infrastructure and bring meaningful change to the lives of people in tribal areas.