Himachal lays foundation stone of second phase of British-era Ellerslie

IANS April 6, 2025 173 views

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu has launched the second phase of the historic Ellerslie building project in Shimla. The Rs 19.72 crore development will create a modern six-storied secretariat complex to improve administrative efficiency. The project is expected to reduce traffic congestion and enhance public accessibility to government offices. Alongside the infrastructure announcement, Sukhu also addressed ongoing investigations and expressed solidarity with the family of deceased Chief Engineer Vimal Negi.

"Everyone wants to know the truth behind Vimal Negi's death" - Sukhvinder Sukhu, Himachal Pradesh CM
Shimla, April 6: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu on Sunday laid the foundation stone of hase-II of the British-era Ellerslie building, housing the state secretariat in the state capital.

Key Points

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New six-storied Ellerslie complex to streamline government operations

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Project aims to reduce traffic congestion in Shimla

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Scheduled for completion by April next year

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Includes dedicated parking and secretariat floors

The project, estimated to cost Rs 19.72 crore, is scheduled for completion by April next year. The upcoming six-storied structure will include three floors for parking, two floors designated for Secretariat offices, and other amenities, an official statement said. Once completed, the facility is expected to significantly decongest the Secretariat complex and enhance accessibility for the public.

The Chief Minister stated that the new infrastructure would streamline public movement, provide better amenities, and help reduce traffic congestion along the Circular Road. Interacting with the media, the Chief Minister mentioned that the state government is open to any form of investigation by central agencies. “If the Enforcement Directorate (ED) can conduct raids in Nadaun, then who is stopping the CBI from carrying out an investigation?” he remarked.

He accused the main Opposition BJP of politicizing the issue related to the unfortunate death of Chief Engineer Vimal Negi and assured that the state government is committed to a fair and transparent inquiry. He added that the government is treating the matter with utmost sensitivity and seriousness. “Everyone wants to know the truth behind Vimal Negi’s death. His wife has also met me, and we stand in full sympathy and solidarity with the bereaved family,” the Chief Minister said.

Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Anirudh Singh, legislators Mohan Lal Brakta, Sunder Singh Thakur, and Harish Janartha, Principal Media Advisor to the Chief Minister Naresh Chauhan, Mayor of Shimla Municipal Corporation Surender Chauhan, Deputy Mayor Uma Kaushal, Additional Chief Secretary Kamlesh Kumar Pant, Secretaries Rajesh Sharma and Priyanka Basu, along with other senior officers were present on the occasion.

Reader Comments

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Rahul K.
Finally some good infrastructure development in Shimla! The parking floors will be a huge relief for visitors. Hope they stick to the timeline and complete it by next year. 🤞
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Priya M.
While I appreciate the development, I'm concerned about the cost - nearly 20 crore seems steep for a 6-story building. Could the funds be better utilized elsewhere in the state?
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Ankit S.
The CM's comments about the investigation seem defensive. Why bring up ED raids when talking about infrastructure? Stay focused on the project please.
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Sunita R.
As someone who visits the Secretariat often, this is much needed! The current parking situation is a nightmare. Hope they maintain the heritage look of the British-era building though.
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Vikram J.
Good to see development, but what about the tragic death of Chief Engineer Negi? The CM says they're treating it seriously - I hope there's real action behind those words.
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Neha T.
More parking in Shimla is always welcome! � But please make sure the construction doesn't disrupt the beautiful surroundings too much. Our hills are precious!

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Tags:
Himachal Pradesh Shimla Sukhvinder Sukhu Ellerslie Secretariat Infrastructure Development British-era Building
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