Sukhu interacts with residents, tourists in Manali

During the inaugural evening of the Winter Carnival’s cultural programme in Manali yesterday, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced an increase in the honorarium to Rs 30,000 for Mahila Mandals who participated in the tableaux parade. He lauded their efforts in preserving traditional attire and local culinary traditions.

The Chief Minister also delighted the audience by singing a Hindi song at cultural programme. Later, he took a leisurely stroll along the Mall Road, interacting with both locals and tourists, and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the cultural extravaganza.

Sukhu also announced Rs 15 crore for the construction of a bridge connecting Rangdi near Manali to the left bank aimed at easing the traffic congestion at the entrance of the town on the request of Manali MLA Bhuvneshwar Gaur. He also unveiled plans to enhance the tourism offerings at Kalath by developing a hot water bath facility, a nature park and other amenities, capitalising on the area’s natural hot springs.

He underlined the commitment of the state government towards enhancing the tourism infrastructure of the region.

He said, “A tourism development project, approved by the Asian Development Bank, has been launched in Manali. This project includes establishing a wellness centre, refurbishing the Naggar Castle and creating facilities such as an ice skating and a roller skating rink, with an investment of Rs 150 crore.” He said an action plan has been prepared to address the traffic congestion and improve amenities for the visitors.