Sukhu sets deadlines for Shimla utility duct project

Shimla: Himachal Pradesh chief minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Thursday set deadlines for the ongoing utility duct project in the city, directing officials to complete tarring work up to Shimla Club by May 10 and up to the Lift area by June 15 to ease commuter movement.Presiding over a meeting of the public works department, the CM said Rs 145 crore was being spent on constructing utility ducts spanning 7km from Chhota Shimla to Willy's Park. He asked the department to expedite the work and ensure completion within the stipulated timeline.Sukhu said Shimla, the state capital and a major tourist destination, attracts lakhs of visitors every year. He stressed that the city should be free of overhead cables to improve the visitor experience, adding that the project would help boost tourist inflow. He added that Shimla, known as the "Queen of Hills", must retain its charm.The utility duct will extend from Chhota Shimla to Willy's Park, from the Secretariat via Lok Bhawan to Oak Over, and from Sher-e-Punjab through Lower Bazar up to CTO and further to Willy's Park.These ducts will accommodate underground electric and water lines, along with other utility cables, and enhance the aesthetic appeal of the city.MSID:: 130470335 413 |