June 14 : With a view to facilitating tourists and general commuters visiting Kufri, the under construction Kufri bypass would be completed by December this year. This was disclosed by Thakur Gulab Singh, Public Works Minister while inspecting the National Highway 22 at Kufri, Fagu, Theog, Matyana and Narkanda in Shimla district today.
Shri Thakur directed the officers of Public Works Department to ensure completion of Kufri bypass by December, 2009. He said that this bypass was slated for completion by 31st March, 2010. He said that this about one km road length is being constructed at a cost of Rs. 6.77 crore out of which Rs. 4.95 crore have been spent till date.
Public Works Minister said that an amount of Rs. 84.12 crore was being spent on construction of roads and bridges in Shimla district during the current financial year. He said that an amount of Rs. 32.82 crore was being spent on various road projects under National Highway roads. He said that Rs. 1.5 crore Gasso bridge in Rampur region has been completed which would help the apple growers of the area. He directed the officer of the Public Works Department to ensure proper maintenance of roads during the ensuing apple season.
Shri Thakur also directed the Public Works officers to expedite work on proposed Theog bypass. He said that this 2.40 kms bypass would be constructed with an estimated cost of Rs. 295.50 lacs. He said that on completion this bypass would also facilitate smooth plying of vehicles in upper Shimla.
Shri Thakur listened public grievances at Matyana and Narkanda.He paid obeisance at Hatu temple.Smt. Vidya Stokes, MLA and Leader of Opposition apprised the Minister about various problems of the area at Narkanda.