Shimla: Under the leadership of Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the Himachal Pradesh Government is taking several steps to improve the State’s road infrastructure. The focus is not only on building new roads but also on making existing roads safer, stronger and more reliable.
Roads are especially important in Himachal Pradesh because they connect remote villages with markets, hospitals, schools and other essential services. They also support agriculture, horticulture, industry and forestry. As of 31 August 2026, Himachal Pradesh has 41,903 kilometres of motorable roads connecting 15,608 census villages. Maintaining such a large road network in difficult mountainous terrain is a major challenge.
Water is one of the main causes of road damage in hilly areas. To address this problem, the State Government approved the Road Drainage Policy in February 2026. The policy gives greater importance to proper drainage during road planning and construction. Drainage systems will be designed according to rainfall and the nature of the surrounding area.
Technology is being used to improve the way roads are managed. A centralized Road Status Information System is being planned to provide information about road closures, restoration work and connectivity, especially during the monsoon and other disasters.
New technologies are being tested on a pilot basis. These include Cement Grouted Bituminous Macadam (CGBM) for stretches affected by drainage problems and CEMECO Technopatch-EX for patch repairs during the monsoon.
The overall aim is to ensure that roads remain dependable throughout the year and continue to provide people across the State with better access to essential services, markets and economic opportunities.
