Himachal Pradesh to Ask Centre to Reassess Land Acquisition Costs for Four‑Lane Road Projects

The state administration of Himachal Pradesh has announced its intention to approach the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways with a formal request. The request seeks a review of the current land acquisition cost structure that the state bears for the construction of four‑lane highways across its terrain. Officials argue that the existing framework places a disproportionate financial strain on the state, potentially delaying critical infrastructure upgrades.

According to sources familiar with the matter, the state plans to submit a detailed proposal outlining the projected costs of upcoming projects and the fiscal impact of the present acquisition norms. The proposal will highlight specific corridors where land procurement has become a bottleneck, urging the centre to consider a more balanced cost‑sharing mechanism.

The move comes as Himachal Pradesh pushes to improve connectivity in its hilly regions, aiming to boost tourism and trade. State leaders contend that easing the land acquisition burden will accelerate project timelines and reduce the overall expenditure borne by the state treasury.

While the central government has not yet responded, officials expect discussions to begin in the coming weeks, with the hope of reaching a mutually agreeable solution that supports the state's infrastructure ambitions.