Chetan Baragta Meets Union Minister Ajay Tamta for Approval of Khadapathar Tunnel and Chaila-Solan Horticulture Road

New Delhi, 4 February 2025 – BJP Himachal Pradesh spokesperson Chetan Baragta met Union Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways, Ajay Tamta, in New Delhi, seeking approval for the Khadapathar Tunnel (Jubbal-Kotkhai, Shimla district) and the Chaila-Solan Horticulture Road as national-level projects.

Baragta emphasized that the Khadapathar Tunnel is crucial for thousands of farmers and orchardists in Jubbal-Kotkhai. The existing road is treacherous due to rugged terrain, heavy snowfall, and sharp turns, posing significant risks. The tunnel would reduce travel time by 40%, ensuring timely transportation of apples and other horticultural produce to markets while also boosting tourism and strengthening the local economy.

Additionally, Baragta urged the minister to upgrade the Chaila-Solan Horticulture Road to a national highway or a four-lane road, as the current narrow and dilapidated route makes fruit transportation extremely challenging. A well-developed road would enhance connectivity to Chandigarh, Delhi, Solan, and other major markets, ultimately increasing the income of orchardists.

During the discussion, Baragta also raised concerns about **the poor condition of roads and infrastructure in the Jubbal-Kotkhai region, highlighting the urgent need for improvements. In response, Minister Tamta assured that the road development issues in the region will be addressed on priority, and the central government will take necessary steps soon.

Baragta stated that the minister adopted a positive approach towards road development in Himachal Pradesh and assured serious consideration of these projects.