Shimla: Public Works and Urban Development Minister Vikramaditya Singh on Thursday laid the foundation stone of the Patiyar-Ghataru-Bairtinala via Sitri Jain link road, to be built at a cost of ₹5 crore, during his visit to the Harshing Dhar Fair in Gram Panchayat Chanawag of Shimla Rural constituency.
Addressing the gathering, Singh said Himachal Pradesh’s fairs reflect the state’s rich cultural heritage and play a key role in preserving its traditions. He said the Harshing Dhar Fair is a symbol of the people’s faith and has been celebrated with devotion for generations.
The minister also laid the foundation stone of the Jude-Khurana link road, to be constructed at a cost of ₹50 lakh, and inaugurated the newly constructed building of Government Primary School, Jude (Judlu), built at a cost of ₹20 lakh.
He said the two road projects would fulfil long-pending demands of residents and would be completed on priority. He assured that other development demands raised by the fair committee would be addressed in a phased manner.
Announcing further infrastructure works, Singh said a community hall would be constructed near the Harshing Dhar shrine, while metalling and tarring of the road connecting Chanawag to the temple would begin after the monsoon.
The minister said construction of a parking facility near the temple complex was progressing rapidly, with around 70% of the work completed. He added that road connectivity from Jotru village and Chhamla Dora to Harshing Dhar would also be improved.
The fair committee accorded a traditional welcome to the minister and submitted a memorandum highlighting local development demands. Singh also announced a ₹51,000 grant for the fair committee towards the successful organisation of the annual event.
