CM Inaugurates Dharamshala’s First Solar Power Project

Dharamshala, January 17, 2025: Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu today inaugurated Dharamshala city’s first 750-kilowatt solar power project in Kangra district. Constructed at a cost of ₹4.74 crore, the project spans 8,500 square meters and is set to generate approximately 2,000 units of electricity daily, contributing to a monthly income of ₹2.80 lakh.

The Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board Limited (HPSEBL) has entered into an agreement to purchase electricity from the project. Equipped with 1,364 solar panels, the facility incorporates advanced safety features, including lightning and fire protection, along with an earthing and bonding system to ensure electrical safety.

Speaking at the inauguration, CM Sukhu reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to promoting green energy. He highlighted plans to allocate seven solar power projects with a combined capacity of 72 megawatts and ongoing surveys for eight more projects totaling 325 megawatts.

The Chief Minister also announced an initiative to develop 200 panchayats into “Green Panchayats” by installing 200-kilowatt ground-mounted solar plants. He cited the success of the 32-megawatt Pekhubela solar energy project in Una district, which generated 34.19 million units of electricity between April and October 2024, earning ₹10.16 crore. Additionally, he mentioned the commissioning of a 5-megawatt project in Bhanjal (Una) and the near completion of a 10-megawatt project in Aghlaur.

“Our government is dedicated to making Himachal Pradesh the first ‘Green Energy State’ by 2026,” said CM Sukhu. “Harnessing green energy will play a vital role in reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change.”

Focus on Beautification and Tourism in McLeodganj

During his visit to McLeodganj, the Chief Minister received a memorandum from the Hotel and Restaurant Association, Smart City Dharamshala McLeodganj, highlighting key issues and suggestions to enhance the area’s appeal and resolve congestion problems.

Association President Rahul Dhiman, General Secretary Sanjeev Gandhi, and Vice President Ashok Pathania proposed measures such as widening roads, improving parking facilities, and streamlining traffic management. They also emphasized the need for beautification initiatives, including road and building repairs, better street lighting, cleanliness, and increased greenery.

The association further suggested organizing street hawkers to prevent traffic jams in the market area. “These measures will not only benefit local residents but also enhance the experience of tourists, boosting the tourism image of Dharamshala and McLeodganj,” said the association members.

The Chief Minister assured the association that the memorandum would be taken seriously and directed the concerned departments to act promptly on the recommendations.

This dual focus on green energy and tourism development underscores the state government’s commitment to sustainable progress and positioning Dharamshala as a model city for ecological and infrastructural excellence.