Shimla's Traffic Solution: Tunnel Proposal Unveiled to Ease Congestion

In a bid to alleviate traffic congestion in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh's Urban Development and PWD Minister Vikramaditya Singh unveiled a proposal to construct a tunnel, with a detailed project report in preparation. The announcement was made following the Annual General Meeting of the Shimla Environment, Heritage Conservation and Beautification Society (SEHB) under the Shimla Municipal Corporation.

Addressing the media, Singh highlighted the achievements of the SEHB's first annual meeting in nine years, emphasizing the crucial role played by sanitation workers in maintaining the city's cleanliness. The government has recognized several of the workers' long-standing demands, committing to addressing them in alignment with the state's financial capabilities.

To support the sanitation workers further, plans are underway to integrate approximately 350 outsourced workers into the SEHB Society, granting them benefits associated with Dearness Allowance akin to state employees. The Minister assured improved working conditions, such as health and life insurance, financial compensation for accidental deaths, and additional paid leave.

Singh also revealed that the government has secured Rs 150 crore under the Urban Challenge Fund for Shimla's development, including a public-private partnership to redevelop the Sabzi Mandi area. This initiative will feature municipal office spaces, parking, commercial facilities, and organized vending zones. The government has affirmed its commitment to anticipate and address future demands of sanitation workers while bolstering urban infrastructure, Singh asserted.