State cooperating in rail projects: Deputy CM

Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri today hit back at BJP leaders for “making baseless and misleading statements” about the ongoing railway projects in Himachal Pradesh.

In a statement issued here today, Agnihotri clarified that the state government was providing full cooperation to the Central Government in railway projects. Rather, the Central Government must fulfil its responsibility in the construction of these projects.

“The state government is keen that the Bhanupalli-Bilaspur-Beri, Chandigarh-Baddi rail line and Nangal-Talwara rail line projects are completed on time. It has not only made financial contribution but has also acted swiftly in acquiring land, securing administrative approvals and completing other necessary formalities,” he said.

He said the state government has so far contributed Rs 847 crore as its share for the construction of the Bhanupalli-Bilaspur-Beri rail line, which is expected to be completed till Bilaspur by December 31, 2027.

Agnihotri said the state government has deposited Rs 223.75 crore out of its share of Rs 363.50 crore for the construction of the 30.28-km Chandigarh-Baddi rail line to be constructed at a cost of Rs 1,540.11.