Govt prioritising tunnels to boost connectivity in Chamba: Speaker

Vidhan Sabha Speaker Kuldeep Singh Pathania on Thursday said that the state government was committed to expanding the tunnel network in Chamba district and proposed the Chamba-Chowari tunnel to give a boost to the connectivity in the region.

He said the work on several connectivity projects, besides educational and health institutions in rural areas would be commenced soon.

Pathania was presiding over the annual prize distribution ceremony of Shaheed Ashish Thapa Government Senior Secondary School, Ghatasani in the Chowari Assembly segment. Addressing the students, the Speaker extended his best wishes for their bright future and assured all necessary resources for the school. He announced a grant of Rs 25 lakh for the development of a sports ground at the school.

Pathania said that a budgetary provision of around Rs 1,000 crore over the next three years to strengthen road connectivity, electricity supply, drinking water and irrigation facilities in the Bhatiyat Assembly constituency.

The Speaker issued directives to the Public Works Department to construct retaining walls at two points on the Ghatasani-Badingi road.

Earlier, Pathania inaugurated the event by lighting the ceremonial lamp and paid tribute to Kargil War hero Shaheed Ashish Thapa. The students added charm to the event with their captivating cultural performances.

To promote cultural activities among students, Pathania announced grants of Rs 21,000 and Rs 11,000 for the senior and junior sections, respectively. He also presented awards to meritorious students for their outstanding achievements.