Tunnel from Talland to IGMC Shimla to be constructed at cost of Rs 900 crore: Himachal CM

The Himachal Pradesh government plans to improve connectivity across the state through the construction of a Rs 900 crore tunnel and other infrastructure projects.

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has said that the Himachal Pradesh government will focus on the construction of tunnel and ropeway to improve connectivity across the state.

Presiding over a programme organised by the Shimla Hotel and Restaurant Association on Sunday evening, he announced that a tunnel from Talland to Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC) in Shimla would be constructed at a cost of Rs 900 crore.

To solve the water problem in Shimla, the government has initiated lifting water from the Sutlej River near Sunni, he said, adding that apart from Shimla, the cities of Dharamshala, Manali and Kasauli are also being developed in a planned and phased manner.

In a statement issued here, he said that developing the tourism industry remains a key priority of the state government and concerted efforts are being undertaken to transform Himachal Pradesh into a world class tourist destination.

He said that infrastructure should be developed in a manner that tourists visiting Himachal Pradesh stay for at least 8 to 10 days.

The CM said that the state government was committed to preserving Shimla's historic charm and has initiated several beautification projects in the city.

Electricity and other utility wires are being shifted underground through utility ducts, he said, adding that the government has allocated Rs 150 crore for widening the Shimla Circular Road to ease traffic congestion.

Sukhu said the government was investing Rs 3,000 crore for the construction of hotels, wellness centres and wayside amenities.

The state was also promoting adventure tourism. To further enhance the tourist experience, a modern riverfront is being developed in Manali, and new tourist destinations are also being identified and developed in a phased manner, he added.

Sukhu urged investors to come forward and invest in the tourism sector, assuring them that the government would provide every possible support and consider their concerns sympathetically.