Shri Chintpurni (Una), February 28: Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri on Saturday inaugurated the ₹12.42 crore Mata Shri Chintpurni Ji Lift Drinking Water Scheme aimed at ensuring regular and clean water supply to the temple area and surrounding villages. Local MLA Sudarshan Bablu was also present.
The scheme will provide drinking water to 19 villages across five panchayats, benefiting over 10,000 residents, more than 4,000 students and thousands of pilgrims visiting the temple annually. A 17-km pipeline has been laid to draw water from the Kalruhi ravine, along with the installation of three storage tanks and modern pumping machinery.
Agnihotri said the region had long awaited the project and congratulated officials of the Water Power Department for completing it in a timely manner. He added that nearly ₹150 crore worth of water-related development works are currently underway in the Shri Chintpurni Assembly constituency.
He directed officials to begin work on the ₹4 crore “Mata Ka Bagh” drinking water scheme on a war footing and set a six-month deadline for its completion. The scheme will connect Mata Ka Bagh to Kalruhi and further to the temple area via Bharwain, with drinking water fountains to be installed at key locations for devotees.
The Deputy Chief Minister said ₹130 crore has been made available in the first phase for the expansion, development and beautification of the Shri Mata Chintpurni Temple. He asked the district administration to ensure daily monitoring of the works. He also directed officials to expedite the ₹100 crore ropeway project approved for the temple, stating that it would enhance convenience for devotees and boost the local economy.
Agnihotri further said that water transport possibilities are being explored to promote religious tourism, adding that efforts are underway to connect Bilaspur to the Shri Naina Devi Temple through waterways.
MLA Sudarshan Bablu thanked the Deputy Chief Minister for inaugurating the scheme and termed it a major relief for local residents and pilgrims. He expressed confidence that the allocation for temple development and ongoing water projects would significantly strengthen tourism and employment in the region.
