CM Sukhu inaugurates 'Samridhi Bhawan'; likely to boost Dharamsala's administrative efficiency

In a significant step toward strengthening Dharamsala’s civic infrastructure, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Tuesday inaugurated the newly constructed Samridhi Bhawan-the dedicated office complex for Dharamshala Smart City Limited (DSCL). The spacious facility, built near Charan Khad in the heart of the town by the Himachal Pradesh Housing and Urban Development Authority (HIMUDA), has been completed at a cost of Rs 24.47 crore and spans a total built-up area of 2,511 square metres.

Addressing the gathering, CM Sukhu described Samridhi Bhawan as a ‘modern hub for administrative efficiency, citizen services and sustainable governance.’ He said the building’s strategic location and integrated design would streamline operations for Dharamsala’s Smart City initiatives while setting a benchmark for upcoming urban development projects across Himachal Pradesh.

The inauguration ceremony saw the presence of senior government officials, elected representatives, DSCL staff and local dignitaries.

Designed to consolidate key civic and administrative functions under one roof, Samridhi Bhawan is equipped to serve as the nerve centre of city governance. The ground floor houses offices of the Mayor, Deputy Mayor and Councillors, along with a 100-seat conference hall and 16 single-window service counters for citizens.

The first floor accommodates the technical and engineering wings of the Dharamsala Municipal Corporation, while the second floor is reserved for Smart City staff and features a versatile 250-seat multipurpose hall. Senior officials, including the Commissioner and Additional Commissioner, have been allotted space on the third floor. The fourth floor offers transit accommodation, a canteen and guest facilities for visiting officers.

Constructed as a reinforced cement concrete (RCC) structure inspired by hill architecture, the building includes two basement levels providing parking for 80 vehicles. CEO Smart City and Municipal Commissioner Zafar Iqbal highlighted its modern amenities, including HVAC systems, firefighting installations, lifts, a 50 KW solar power plant, rainwater harvesting facilities, a 30,000-litre water storage system and landscaped green lawns with gazebos that enhance its eco-friendly design.