सर्वप्रथम भाजपने हे स्पष्ट करावे की केंद्र सरकारने पेट्रोल आणि...

By GT24x7 Reporter · 13 August 2026 · GlobalToday24x7

Political tension has increased in Himachal Pradesh over the decision to impose an additional cess of 60 paise per litre on petrol and high-speed diesel. After the opposition BJP questioned the state government's decision, Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh supported the government's decision and hit back at the central government and the BJP. Singh said that before questioning the state government's decision, BJP leaders should clarify why the prices of petrol and diesel in the country are already so high.

The central government has failed to control the prices of petrol and diesel, which is directly affecting the common man and the development works of the state. The rising prices of crude oil have also affected the cost of bitumen (asphalt) used in road construction; the rising prices of bitumen are increasing the cost of road paving and construction.

Most parts of the state rely on road networks for transportation. As a result, rising prices of construction materials directly impact the budget of the Public Works Department and road development projects.

Instead of blaming the state government alone, the BJP should also clarify to what extent the central government's policies are responsible for the rising prices of fuel and construction materials. If the BJP is demanding answers from the state government, then they should hold the central government responsible as well. The cess imposed in Himachal has been implemented keeping in mind the current situation.

Vikramaditya Singh also questioned the central government regarding the 'E-20' fuel and ethanol blend; he noted that these measures are affecting the mileage of vehicles and causing inconvenience to the public. He demanded that the BJP should be held accountable on these issues as well.

Meanwhile, speaking on the issue of roads closed due to monsoon, the Public Works Minister said that currently around 312 roads are closed. Out of these, the target is to reopen 195 roads by August 12, while efforts will be made to restore around 70 more roads in the next two days.

He informed that around 600 machinery — including Poklen excavators, JCBs and other equipment — have been deployed across the state. In addition, 'Bailey Bridges' (temporary bridges) have also been kept ready. The Minister said that priority is being given to restoring roads in the horticultural sector to avoid any inconvenience to the people during the apple season. He mentioned that the funds received under SDRF, NDRF and PDNA are being distributed to various departments as per the requirement; around Rs 225 crore has been distributed across the state through PDNA so far.

Meanwhile, instructions have been given to complete the tender process for the Chaila-Neripool-Yeswantnagar road within the next 15 to 30 days, so that the construction of this road can begin as soon as the monsoon season ends.