Funding Delays Stall Chandigarh-Baddi Railway Line Project

The Himachal Pradesh government faces criticism for not depositing its full share of Rs 178.95 crore for the Chandigarh-Baddi railway line project with the Railway Ministry. The project is a 33 km initiative costing Rs 1,540 crore, with shared funding between the state and the central government.

The Himachal Pradesh government is under scrutiny for failing to provide the remainder of its financial contribution to the Chandigarh-Baddi railway line project. Of the Rs 483.95 crore allocated from the state's share, Rs 178.95 crore remains unpaid.

During a session in the Rajya Sabha, BJP MP Indu Bala Goswami questioned the cost-sharing dynamics of the project. In response, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw clarified that the project is a 50:50 financial partnership between the state government and the Railway Ministry.

Vaishnaw indicated that Rs 967.9 crore has been expended so far, and emphasized the importance of state cooperation for successful completion. Enhancements at Chandi Mandir Station are underway, with plans to increase the number of railway lines from three to five as part of the new line project.

(With inputs from agencies.)