Mahendragarh Leaders Urge CM to Advance IMT and Fort Projects

A delegation from Mahendragarh has met with Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini to advocate for the swift advancement of two significant projects: the proposed Industrial Model Township (IMT) at Khudana and the renovation of the historic Madhogarh Fort. The meeting aimed to address the delays that have stalled these initiatives, which are viewed as crucial for both industrial development and tourism in the region.

Among the delegation were representatives of local sarpanches, including Naresh Tanwar, who spoke on behalf of Khudana, and Rampal Singh, the sarpanch of Madhogarh. The group was led by senior BJP leader and former state minister Ram Bilas Sharma, who emphasized the potential of these projects. Sharma described IMT Khudana as a catalyst for industrial growth and job creation. He asserted, “The development of Madhogarh Fort will make the district a centre of international tourism.”

In response to the delegation’s concerns, CM Saini assured attendees that the government recognizes the importance of these projects. He stated that the technical and administrative hurdles delaying the construction of the IMT and the fort renovation would be addressed promptly.

Government Commitment to Priority Projects

Saini confirmed that both projects would be prioritized, with the appointment of nodal officers to oversee their progress. “Both projects will be taken up on priority and completed as soon as possible,” he said, providing a renewed sense of hope to the residents.

Following the meeting, the Mahendragarh Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) established a coordination committee to facilitate the establishment of the IMT at Khudana. The foundation stone for this ambitious project was laid by former Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar in February 2019. The IMT is designed to span 1,654 acres and aims to incorporate a tourism complex, but has struggled to gain traction since its inception.

According to official sources, the development of the IMT is facing delays primarily due to techno-official challenges. The land necessary for connecting the IMT to the adjacent highway is owned by local residents, many of whom are reluctant to relinquish it. At one point, the project was deemed “unfeasible” and returned to state authorities for reconsideration, but it has yet to be officially withdrawn.

The IMT remains a personal ambition for Sharma, who served Mahendragarh in the legislative assembly and was part of Khattar’s cabinet from 2014 to 2019. The Haryana State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation (HSIIDC) is designated to oversee the development, yet bureaucratic challenges have hindered progress.

As discussions continue, local leaders remain hopeful that the renewed commitment from the state government will lead to the realization of both the IMT and the fort renovation. These projects are seen as essential for enhancing Mahendragarh’s economic prospects and cultural appeal.