Shimla, May 5 (UNI) To modernize the state's urban infrastructure, the Himachal Pradesh Council of Ministers, chaired by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, on Monday approved the construction of a commercial complex, comprising two high-rise buildings of 14 and 17 storeys at Mohal Chotta Shimla, Dehat Shimla.
The project aims to cater to the city’s growing administrative and commercial demands, offering modern amenities, an efficient layout and ample parking.
In another decision, the Wildlife Wing of the Forest Department will be shifted from Shimla to Dharamshala. Its current premises will house the CPD KFW Project Office, which will in turn be relocated to the Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), Dharamshala office space.
In a bid to regularize employment, the Cabinet also decided to convert part-time Class-IV workers into daily wagers in various departments, who have completed seven years of continuous service as of March 31, 2025.
The Cabinet gave the green light to shift the District Jail from Mandi to Nerchowk, with the existing Mandi facility to be converted into an open jail for women. Sanction was given for the creation and filling of necessary posts to ensure its proper functioning.
A digital push was also approved with the formulation of the Himachal Pradesh Online Filing and Processing of Court Cases Rules, 2025 under the Revenue Department, enabling online handling of legal matters.
In transport, 350 new stage carriage routes were approved, including provision for private 18-seater tempo travellers to boost last-mile connectivity.
To regulate unplanned development, the Cabinet sanctioned development plans for Chintpurni (Una), Sarahan (Shimla), and Bhota (Hamirpur) special areas.
Strengthening healthcare, the Cabinet cleared the recruitment of 81 medical officers, 18 forensic professionals and 11 agricultural subject matter specialists.
Further, land was allocated for AIIMS Bilaspur's expansion and for setting up a Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya in Chamba.
The Cabinet also withdrew the earlier notification to upgrade Nagar Panchayat Sunni to a Municipal Council.
Additionally, the Jal Shakti Vibhag was designated as the implementing agency for drinking water supply schemes under the 15th Finance Commission.
UNI ML SS