Himachal Pradesh Congress Committee (HPCC) president Thakur Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu has requested Union Surface transport Minister Oscar Fernandes to grant financial assistance for four laning of NH 88 which was passing through six districts of Himachal Pradesh.

Sukhu said it during a welcome function organised in the honour of Oscar Fernandes at Rajiv Bhawan, Indian National Congress Shimla office, also informed Union Minister that the NH 88 is the life line of Himachal Pradesh. It is passing through six districts of the state. It is the only road connecting state capital Shimla with the lower region of the state. Sukhu said that there were three major cement factories adjoining this NH and heavy trucks and thousands of vehicle ply on this road on daily basis and caused frequent traffic congestion on it. Congress state president emphasized on the need to widen this national highway to avoid growing traffic congestion in near time.

Congress state president also demanded Fernandes to grant financial assistance to revamp rain wrecked region of state. He apprised Union Minister about the lose in Kinnaur and Mandi district due to heavy rain and urged him to take up it in New Delhi.

Union Surface transport Minister Oscar Fernandes assured to take up the issue immediately. He said that a team to assess the damage would come to Himachal Pradesh and immediate action would be taken after that.