Himachal to introduce scrap policy for time-bound disposal: CM Sukhu

The Himachal Pradesh Government will soon formulate a comprehensive scrap policy to ensure the timely disposal of obsolete machinery and equipment across all departments. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, while replying to a query during Question Hour in the Vidhan Sabha, acknowledged the widespread issue of scrap accumulation. He noted that heaps of abandoned machinery and junk are visible across institutions such as schools, colleges, medical colleges and other government departments, adversely affecting both the environment and the visual landscape.The Chief Minister said the policy would regulate and streamline the disposal process and would soon be placed before the Cabinet for approval. Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh added that although scrap disposal primarily falls under the Industries Department, the PWD will also frame its own mechanism for handling redundant machinery within its jurisdiction.*Jal Jeevan Mission: Funding gaps and policy clarityReplying to a query regarding the construction of rest houses under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri clarified that the mission’s objective is to provide drinking water, not to build rest houses. He said the Centre has asked the state to arrange funds for 25 such rest houses from its own resources.Agnihotri further said Rs 1,227 crore under JJM is still pending from the Centre. He pointed out that no funds were released last year due to nationwide inspections of JJM works. However, he added that the Union Cabinet has now indicated that funds will be released as per guidelines, and the state will expedite pending schemes once the funds are received.Naina Devi shrine: Infra push amid safety concernsOn the development of religious infrastructure, the Chief Minister said a major master plan is being prepared for the Naina Devi shrine to promote temple tourism. The plan includes installation of a lift for elderly and differently-abled pilgrims, widening of approach roads, and improved facilities for shopkeepers. A budgetary provision of Rs 25 crore has been made for development works at Naina Devi and Jwalamukhi shrines. He also announced that all MLAs will be included as members of temple trusts.Deputy Chief Minister Agnihotri, however, cautioned that the Naina Devi area has been declared a geologically sensitive zone, making it unsuitable for heavy construction. Referring to the 2008 stampede, he said the Temple Trust has recommended the development of alternate routes to improve safety and crowd management. He also noted that the estimated cost of the lift project has increased from Rs 6 crore to Rs 12 crore due to technical and safety considerations.

Himachal to introduce scrap policy for time-bound disposal: CM Sukhu

Govt aims to clear heaps of abandoned machinery scarring public spaces

Tribune News Service

Himachal to introduce scrap policy for time-bound disposal: CM Sukhu

Govt aims to clear heaps of abandoned machinery scarring public spaces

Tribune News Service

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