SHIMLA 23 June, 2026
CM inaugurates car parking facility at Auckland tunnel in Shimla
Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu today inaugurated newly developed multi-storied car parking facility near Auckland tunnel in Shimla city. Built up at a cost of Rs.7.60 crore, it has the parking capacity for 145 vehicles.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said that the state government was committed to provide modern civic amenities and ensuring planned urban development. This parking slot would help to decongest major roads in and around the Auckland tunnel area besides reducing roadside parking and facilitating smooth vehicular movement.
He said that the state government was undertaking various infrastructure initiatives aimed at making the state capital more accessible, organized and commuter-friendly. He emphasized that improving traffic management and creating adequate public infrastructure remain key priorities of the government.
"The rapid increase in the number of vehicles in Shimla has posed considerable challenges to traffic regulation and parking management. This modern parking facility has been developed to meet these challenges and ensure greater convenience for the local people and tourists alike" he added.
Shri Sukhu said that the state government was pursuing a comprehensive approach towards urban development, focusing on sustainable infrastructure, efficient public services and improved quality of life for citizens. He reiterated the government's resolve to create modern facilities that cater to the needs of both residents and the large number of tourists visiting Shimla throughout the year.
Appreciating the efforts of the departments and agencies involved in the project, the Chief Minister said that the successful completion of the parking facility reflects the government's commitment to timely execution of development works. He expressed confidence that the facility would emerge as an important public asset and contribute significantly to easing traffic pressure in the city.
Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh, MLA Harish Janartha, Mayor Surender Chauhan, Deputy Mayor Uma Kaushal, Councillors and other prominent persons were also present on the occasion.
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SHIMLA 23 June, 2026
CM flags-off Olympic run on International Olympic Day
Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu Tuesday flagged-off the Olympic Run from his official residence, Oak Over on the occasion of International Olympic Day, which culminated at the Indira Gandhi State Sports Complex Shimla via CTO. Around 200 athletes participated in the event, which was organized in both men’s and women’s categories.
Extending his greetings on International Olympic Day, the Chief Minister said that the State Government was committed to promoting sports across the State. He remarked, 'Sports are also a form of education. Just as students excel in academics, athletes should strive to bring laurels to the State through their achievements in sports.' He said that the State Government was making concerted efforts to host ‘Khelo India’ events in Himachal Pradesh. He added that robust sports infrastructure has already been developed in Bilaspur, Kangra, Una and Hamirpur districts for the benefit of the youth. A Centre of Excellence for sports is also being established at Nadaun in Hamirpur district at a cost of Rs. 150 crore, which is expected to be completed by October this year, he added.
The Chief Minister said that sports inculcate the spirit of discipline and teamwork among the youth, which are essential for success in life. He also appealed to them to actively support the State Government’s anti-drug campaign and contribute towards building a drug-free and healthy society.
Sh. Sukhu further stated that the State Government has made a historic enhancement in cash rewards for medal winners in international sporting events. The cash award for gold medalists in the Olympics, Paralympics and Winter Olympics has been increased from Rs. 3 crore to Rs. 5 crore. Similarly, the reward for gold medalists in the Asian Games and Para Asian Games has been raised from Rs. 50 lakh to Rs. 4 crore, while the cash prize for gold medalists in the Commonwealth Games and Para Commonwealth Games has been increased from Rs. 50 lakh to Rs. 3 crore, he added.
MLA Harish Janartha, Director Youth Services and Sports Shivam Pratap Singh, General Secretary of the Himachal Pradesh Olympic Association Rajesh Bhandari and other distinguished guests were also present on the occasion.