₹250 crore project imposed without clear need or public benefit, alleges BJP
Shimla
BJP State Spokesperson Sandipani Bhardwaj has raised serious concerns over the Congress government’s ongoing duct project on Mall Road, calling it a blatant waste of public funds. He stated that the project, estimated to cost over ₹250 crore, is likely to see further cost escalation in the future.
Bhardwaj alleged that before initiating such a massive project, neither its actual need was properly assessed nor was a clear roadmap presented outlining its benefits to the public. He questioned the justification for such heavy expenditure, stating that the duct would neither improve traffic conditions nor provide any direct benefit to common citizens.
He further said that essential processes such as cost-benefit analysis, traffic studies, and public impact assessment were ignored. According to him, the project was launched without adequate planning, and residents of Shimla are now facing the consequences.
The BJP spokesperson also highlighted that the ongoing construction work has caused significant inconvenience in Mall Road and surrounding areas, affecting businesses, tourism, and daily life. He added that while public time and resources are being wasted, the government has remained unresponsive.
Bhardwaj demanded that the government release a white paper detailing the project’s cost, necessity, and expected benefits. He urged the authorities to clearly explain to the public the outcome of the hundreds of crores being spent.
He further stated that the BJP would strongly raise this issue and hold the Congress government accountable for the alleged misuse of public funds.
