HP seeks World Bank assistance for strengthening road network

Shimla, Sep 8 (UNI) Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh today said his government is seeking assistance of Rs 1,000 crore from the World Bank for improving and strengthening the road network in the state.

The government has been utilising external finances for improving existing road infrastructure in the state, he said during his interaction with the World Bank team led by Pirce Vicker.

The Himachal Government had recently submitted a proposal the World Bank for the up-gradation and maintenance of the state highways and major district roads, he said.

The proposal consisted of two components, up-gradation of the roads, including intermediate, double lanning of about 800 kms of roads and periodical renewal of additional 3,000 km of roads, he said.

The Chief Minister said his government was also seeking funds for construction of tunnels at different places to reduce distances between two places by several kilometers to facilitate locals and promote tourism in the state.

Mr Singh said his government was considering constructing a tunnel at Jalori Pass in Kullu district, connecting Banjar and Ani valleys with an all weather road.

The Jawaharlal Nehru Urban Renewal Mission would provide financial aid in the development of Shimla town and a plan of Rs 1,500 crore was being prepared and sent to the Centre for approval, he said.

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