Himachal to promote angling, water sports

Himachal Pradesh would promote angling and water sports in Kullu district in a bigger way by roping private investments, Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh said here on Wednesday.

"Any mishap or loss of life during adventure sports does not imply that such sports should be banned. The agencies conducting such adventure related activities must adopt adequate safety measures," he said at a public meeting in Larji in Kullu district.

He also said the Kullu Valley has immense tourism and adventure potential and that it must be promoted properly.

The Beas river and its tributaries in Kullu district support population of the brown trout, an exotic fish species introduced by the British in 1909 to promote angling.

He assured to re-construct the temple at Shanghar in its traditional style and directed the deputy commissioner to retain the original architecture of the temple.

The chief minister said the state government has opened various colleges in the state, particularly in far-flung areas, which would help girl students get higher education at their doorsteps.

He also announced to open a degree college in Sainj town, which is scheduled to start from the next session.

Earlier, the chief minister laid the foundation stone of a bridge over the Beas river, which will connect Panarasa with Thrass village. The bridge would cost Rs.5.15 crore and will benefit around 3,500 people.

Local legislator Karan Singh thanked the chief minister for opening a fire station at Larji which was people's demand since long.