Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu met with former Haryana Chief Minister and Union Minister of Power, Manohar Lal Khattar, in Chandigarh on Friday. The two leaders engaged in a detailed discussion on various important topics, including power, smart cities, and other pertinent issues concerning Himachal Pradesh.
After the meeting, CM Sukhu highlighted the comprehensive nature of their conversation, noting the focus on power and smart city initiatives. He expressed optimism about the outcomes of the discussion, emphasising the importance of collaboration with the Union Minister of Power, Housing, and Urban Affairs for the state's development.
The meeting was also attended by other ministers from Himachal Pradesh, marking a significant step in addressing the state's developmental needs. CM Sukhu has been actively engaging with central ministers to discuss and resolve issues faced by Himachal Pradesh.
This series of meetings reflects the proactive approach of the Himachal Pradesh government in seeking support and cooperation from the central authorities.
Earlier in the week, on Wednesday, July 17, CM Sukhu met with Union Minister for Road Transport and National Highways, Nitin Gadkari. During this meeting, he urged Minister Gadkari to declare the 39.20 km Ranital-Kotla road and the 41.50 km Ghumarwin-Jahu-Sarkaghat road as national highways.
Sukhu emphasised that these roads have already been constructed to National Highway standards and have been recognized as such 'in principle.' The declaration would facilitate better maintenance and funding for these crucial routes.
On the same day, CM Sukhu also met with Union Home Minister Amit Shah. He apprised Minister Shah of the state's vulnerability to natural disasters and requested the speedy release of pending funds for effective disaster management.
Specifically, he sought the release of Rs 9,042 crore as financial assistance, based on a post-disaster assessment conducted by a central team. This request stems from the severe natural disasters that hit Himachal Pradesh during last year's monsoon season, resulting in devastating flash floods and landslides.
The meeting with Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Friday marked the second such engagement between Sukhu and Khattar within the week. Their previous meeting took place on Tuesday, July 16, in the national capital, where they discussed various state issues pending with the Central Ministry.
One of the key issues raised by Sukhu was the restoration of the Shanan Power Project's rights to the state, as the lease period had expired. He sought the Union Minister's intervention for an amicable resolution to this matter, as detailed in an official release.
CM Sukhu's series of meetings with central ministers underscores the Himachal Pradesh government's commitment to addressing the state's developmental challenges through constructive dialogue and collaboration with the central authorities.
By actively engaging with key ministers, Sukhu aims to secure the necessary support and resources to drive the state's progress and ensure the welfare of its people.
The focus on infrastructure development, disaster management, and power projects highlights the comprehensive approach taken by the Himachal Pradesh government to tackle pressing issues and pave the way for sustainable growth and development in the region.
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