Dehradun: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami visited Almora and launched a major development package worth ₹138.09 crore, aimed at strengthening infrastructure across education, healthcare, transport, drinking water, irrigation, and urban development sectors.
The event marks one of the significant multi-sector development initiatives in the culturally and historically important hill district of Almora.
26 Development Projects: A Combined Package of Inaugurations and Foundation Stones
During the visit, the Chief Minister inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for a total of 26 development projects, including:
- 17 completed projects (₹85.08 crore) inaugurated
- 9 new projects (₹53.01 crore) with foundation stones laid
These projects are expected to significantly improve civic infrastructure and public services across the district.
Key Focus on Almora University Infrastructure
A major highlight of the visit was the inauguration of newly constructed facilities at Soban Singh Jeena University in Almora, including:
- New administrative building
- Vice-Chancellor’s residence
The Chief Minister emphasized strengthening higher education infrastructure to improve academic quality and administrative efficiency in the region.
Urban Development: New Parking Facilities to Ease Traffic
Under the Urban Development Department, three new parking facilities were inaugurated in Almora city:
- Bhairav Temple area
- KMOU (Kumaon Motor Owners Union) station area
- Government Inter College (GIC) zone
Built at a cost of around ₹11 crore, these parking projects aim to reduce congestion and improve traffic management in the hill town.
Drinking Water and Rural Connectivity Boost
The Drinking Water Department connected 19 revenue villages with clean drinking water supply schemes, ensuring improved access to potable water in rural areas.
Under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, road improvement works covering 34.10 km were completed, including:
- Shitalakhet–Dhauladevi–Kathpudia route
- Soni–Titlikhet road
- Ranikhet–Buchhdi–Pantkotuli–Gagas motor route
These upgrades are expected to enhance rural mobility and economic connectivity.
Flood Protection and Irrigation Works
The Irrigation Department inaugurated four flood protection projects in Chaukhutia and Syaldey regions. These works focus on:
- Protection of agricultural land
- Safeguarding bridges and public infrastructure
- Strengthening flood defense systems
Additionally, a mini barrage project at Govindpur Daulaghat was also inaugurated.
Education, Health, and Technical Education Initiatives
Several sector-specific developments were launched:
Education Infrastructure
- Development works in Sarakot School inaugurated
- New classrooms announced for Mahakaleshwar School in Chaukhutia
Healthcare Improvement
- Transit hostel for medical officers inaugurated at Community Health Centre, Lamgada
Technical Education
- Safety enhancement initiatives started at Government Polytechnic, Almora
These projects aim to improve institutional infrastructure in remote regions.
Tourism and Cultural Heritage Development
The government also inaugurated beautification work at the Sam Devta Temple area in Danya Bazaar, along with initiatives aimed at promoting cultural and tourism value in Almora.
The Chief Minister reiterated that Almora holds strong cultural, historical, and tourism significance and requires continuous development focus.
CM’s Vision: Inclusive Development for Himalayan Regions
CM Pushkar Singh Dhami stated that the state government is committed to ensuring:
- Development reaches the last person in society
- Improved infrastructure in hill and rural regions
- Strengthening of roads, health, education, and water systems
He highlighted that the government’s priority is balanced development across Uttarakhand’s mountainous terrain.
SDG Achievers Awards Ceremony Held
During the visit, the Chief Minister also attended the SDG Achievers Awards 2024–25, recognizing excellence in sustainable development efforts.
Top-performing districts:
- 1st: Rudraprayag
- 2nd: Uttarkashi and Nainital
- 3rd: Bageshwar, Chamoli, and Tehri (joint rank)
Awards were also given to institutions and individuals contributing to:
- Health
- Education
- Environment
- Women empowerment
- Sanitation
Key Dignitaries Present
The event was attended by several prominent figures including:
- Union Minister of State Ajay Tamta
- District Panchayat Chairperson Hema Gaira
- MLA Ranikhet Dr. Pramod Nainwal
- Vice-Chancellor Prof. Satpal Singh Bisht (Soban Singh Jeena University)
- District Magistrate Anshul Singh
- SSP Chandrashekhar R. Ghodeke
- Other administrative officials and public representatives
The Almora visit and ₹138 crore development rollout represent a significant push toward improving infrastructure in Uttarakhand’s hill regions. With focus areas spanning education, healthcare, transport, irrigation, and tourism, the initiatives are expected to enhance both quality of life and regional economic development in Almora district.
