Centre approves Rs 28 crore for Kullu project

The Central government has approved Rs 28.35 crore under the Central Infrastructure and Road Fund (CIRF) for the construction of a double-lane bridge from Pirdi to Talogi. The proposal, pending since 2023, is among Kullu MLA Sunder Singh Thakur’s flagship development initiatives aimed at easing mobility across the district and supporting its rising tourism potential.

Thakur had earlier unveiled a comprehensive mobility plan that included the Dhalpur bypass road from Pirdi to the Bhootnath Bridge in Sarwari. The bypass received approval during former Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh’s tenure and Thakur later prioritised the project under the previous BJP government. Efforts are also underway to explore a dedicated cycle track and jogging path from Ramshila to the Pirdi Bridge, promoting eco-friendly travel and enhancing recreational spaces for locals and tourists alike.

The upcoming bridge is poised to significantly improve access to the Bijli Mahadev ropeway base station at Pirdi, whose foundation stone was laid virtually by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on March 5, 2024. Speaking at the event, Thakur emphasised that the bridge would link the four-lane stretch on the left bank to the right bank, making it easier for pilgrims and tourists to reach the Bijli Mahadev temple via the ropeway. He thanked Gadkari for his support and said the project would “give new wings to tourism development” across the district.

Work on the proposal began in 2023 with site inspections, followed by the completion of necessary formalities by the Public Works Department before forwarding it for sanction. With funding now approved, construction will begin at Pirdi, about 5 km from Kullu town. The bridge will also provide major relief to residents between Bhuntar and Kullu, as heavy vehicles are currently barred from the existing Bhootnath Bridge. Larger vehicles presently take a nearly 10-km detour via the Bhuntar Bridge, as no major structure connects the two sides. A small suspension bridge exists near Talogi, but it cannot support vehicular traffic.

Once completed, the Pirdi-Talogi bridge will benefit residents of Mohal, Shamshi, Pirdi, Badah and the wider Kharal belt, reducing commute time and easing daily travel. Confirming the approval of Rs 28.35 crore, Thakur said the foundation stone would be laid soon. He reiterated that the bridge would not only decongest traffic but also act as a catalyst for tourism and regional development.