The central government has failed to fully fund the Dharamshala smart city project, which is likely to hamper the development works of the project.
As per data from data, the central government had provided Rs 245 crore to the smart city project while the government has contributed only Rs 47 crore.
According to the agreement of the project, the central and the state government must provide equal funds for the projects. Sources told the media that the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development asked the state government to contribute its share of funds to the project prior to the release of more money by the centre, which is around Rs 200 crore now.
The sources also said that the project received Rs 292 crore, in which the central government contributed Rs 245 crore and the State government contributed Rs 47 crore. Around Rs 51.82 crore was left with the project authorities, and around Rs 241 crore was spent under the project till July 31. The sources said that the development under the project might come to a halt until the State or Central government provides more funds.
The state government has requested the central government for 90% of the funds while Himachal Pradesh should be allowed to contribute just 10% to the project being a special category state.
The central government turned down the request stating that the other states which have been sanctioned smart city projects also might begin to make similar requests if Himachal is given the benefit of a special category state.
Some of the works that have already been implemented in the Dharamshala under the Smart City project include website, underground dustbins, smart classrooms, root zone treatment, DC complex parking, LED lights in streets, GIS Web Portal, e-Nagarpalika, inclusive streets, solar power plant, all ability park and Bhagsunag project area development.
Also read: Govt allots Rs 181 cr to Dharamshala, Shimla under smart city goal
