Shimla: Education Minister Rohit Thakur today here chaired a review meeting to assess the progress of development works being carried out by the Public Works Department in Jubbal-Kotkhai constituency.
He directed officers to ensure that all the new road constructions as well as the restoration of roads damaged during disasters must be executed by using the best available technology. The future infrastructure must be developed considering the challenges posed by extreme weather events like the heavy rains and cloudbursts witnessed in 2023 and this year. He said that even if such conditions recur, roads and other infrastructure should remain functional throughout the year.
He said that this year’s heavy rainfall caused damages worth Rs. 167 crore to the Public Works Department across 14 Rohru divisions and two National Highways. The damage included Rs. 53 crore in Jubbal division, Rs.50 crore in Kotkhai division, Rs. 24 crore in Rohru division, Rs. 35 crore on National Highway 705 and Rs. 5 crore on National Highway 707.
The Education Minister said that the disaster struck just as the apple season began, this year disrupting connectivity and posing challenges for fruit growers. However, the Public Works Department acted swiftly and restored road connectivity providing timely relief to the apple growers. He appreciated the dedication and commitment of the officers and employees during the disaster.
He said that all roads damaged during the disaster have been restored for small vehicles, while around 14 roads still remain closed for heavy vehicles which will be reopened on priority basis.
Rohit Thakur said that the department should explore alternatives like bailey bridges in areas prone to frequent landslides or where road construction faces persistent difficulties. He directed the officials to issue all tenders related to works under the Post-Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA) by 15 November 2025.
He also directed that immediate relief measures be undertaken in areas where houses, land, or property are at risk and said that such locations must be identified to ensure public safety.
The Education Minister also reviewed the progress of ongoing construction of educational, health and community buildings in the area and instructed to expedite their completion. He said that the State Government has made adequate budgetary provisions for strengthening road infrastructure and constructing various public buildings in the Kotkhai area.
He also discussed restoration works, projects under NABARD, PMGSY-III, World Bank-funded schemes and other development initiatives related to the Education Department.
