Himachal Pradesh Secures Rs 239.45 Crore Central Approval for Major Apple-Belt Road Upgrades

Shimla : In a major boost to the state’s rural economy, the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has granted administrative approval for Rs 239.45 crore under the Central Road and Infrastructure Fund (CRIF) for 2026–27 to upgrade two critical road corridors in Himachal Pradesh.

• The funds will target key transport routes vital for the state's horticulture industry:
• Chhaila-Neripul-Yashwant Nagar-Kumarhatti Road: Allocated Rs 203.52 crore for a major overhaul.
• Tikkar-Jarol-Khamadi Road: Allocated Rs 35.93 crore to upgrade the final 16-kilometer stretch, completing the entire corridor.

Public Works and Urban Development Minister Vikramaditya Singh credited the sanction to persistent advocacy by the state government and the Public Works Department (PWD) with Union Minister Nitin Gadkari.

"These projects are not merely investments in road infrastructure but investments in the livelihoods of our farmers and horticulturists," Singh stated.

Lifeline for Apple Growers
The Chhaila-Kumarhatti route serves as a crucial transit artery for the major apple-producing belts of Theog, Kotkhai, Jubbal, Rohru, and Chopal. Simultaneously, completing the Tikkar-Jarol-Khamadi stretch will deliver long-awaited relief to farmers in the Rampur constituency.

• Better road quality is expected to deliver immediate benefits across the region:
• Accelerated transit times for fresh produce to national markets
• Substantial reduction in post-harvest losses and transit costs
• Enhanced safety and seamless connectivity during peak harvest seasons

The state government announced it will clear procedural steps swiftly to ensure early commencement and timely completion of construction work.

(Jitendra Verma)