Himachal Pradesh Commences Second Phase of Historic Ellerslie

Synopsis
The Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Sukhvinder Sukhu, laid the foundation stone for Phase-II of the historic Ellerslie building in Shimla, projected to cost Rs 19.72 crore and expected to be completed by April next year, enhancing public accessibility and reducing traffic congestion.
Key Takeaways
- Foundation stone laid for Phase-II of Ellerslie.
- Projected cost: Rs 19.72 crore.
- Completion expected by April next year.
- New structure aims to decongest the Secretariat complex.
- Government committed to a fair inquiry regarding Vimal Negi's death.
Shimla, April 6 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Sukhvinder Sukhu, officially inaugurated the foundation for Phase-II of the historic Ellerslie building, which serves as the state secretariat in Shimla.
The initiative, projected to require an investment of Rs 19.72 crore, is anticipated to conclude by April of next year. This new six-story edifice will feature three levels dedicated to parking, along with two floors allocated for Secretariat offices and additional facilities, according to an official announcement.
Upon completion, this infrastructure is expected to substantially alleviate congestion within the Secretariat complex and improve public accessibility.
The Chief Minister emphasized that the enhanced infrastructure would facilitate smoother public movement, provide superior amenities, and contribute to reducing traffic congestion along the Circular Road.
During a media interaction, the Chief Minister expressed the state government's willingness to cooperate with any form of central investigation.
“If the Enforcement Directorate (ED) can conduct operations in Nadaun, then there should be no hindrance for the CBI to initiate an inquiry,” he stated.
He accused the principal opposition party, the BJP, of politicizing the tragic incident surrounding the death of Chief Engineer Vimal Negi and assured that the state government is dedicated to a fair and transparent investigation.
He further mentioned that the government is addressing the situation with the highest degree of sensitivity and seriousness.
“Everyone is eager to uncover the truth regarding Vimal Negi’s death. His wife has approached me, and we extend our full sympathy and support to the grieving family,” the Chief Minister remarked.
Present at the occasion were 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 various senior officials.