Nainital: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami inaugurated the newly constructed Dhangarhi Bridge in Ramnagar, Nainital district. Built at a cost of approximately ₹29.65 crore, the 220.90-meter-long modern bridge lies on National Highway-309 and is set to significantly strengthen connectivity between the Kumaon and Garhwal regions.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Union Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways Ajay Tamta, along with several public representatives and senior officials.
Long-Awaited Solution to Monsoon Disruptions
For years, the Dhangarhi stream (nala) had been a major cause of disruption during the monsoon season. Heavy rainfall often led to a sharp rise in water levels, forcing the closure of NH-309 for hours at a time.
This caused severe inconvenience to:
- Commuters traveling between Kumaon and Garhwal
- Tourists visiting the region
- Emergency services such as ambulances
- Local residents and transport operators
Several incidents were also reported in the past where vehicles were stranded or even swept away due to strong water currents, making the location highly vulnerable during rainy seasons.
The new bridge is expected to permanently resolve these long-standing challenges by ensuring safe and uninterrupted traffic flow even during heavy rainfall.
Improved Connectivity for Key Regions and Tourist Destinations
The Dhangarhi Bridge will enhance road connectivity for important destinations including:
- Ramnagar
- Ranikhet
- Almora
- Salt region
- Garhwal-bound routes
It will also improve access for tourists traveling to major attractions such as:
- Jim Corbett National Park
- Char Dham pilgrimage route (indirect connectivity support via network improvement)
Officials stated that the bridge will reduce travel disruptions and significantly improve regional mobility.
Boost to Tourism, Trade, and Local Economy
According to government officials, the new infrastructure project is expected to provide a strong push to the regional economy.
Key expected benefits include:
- Faster movement of goods and agricultural products
- Improved tourism flow in Kumaon region
- Better access to healthcare and emergency services
- Reduced travel delays during peak monsoon months
- Enhanced safety for commuters
The bridge is also expected to support small businesses, transport operators, and hospitality-related activities in the region.
Another Upcoming Infrastructure Project Near Completion
During the inauguration, Chief Minister Dhami also highlighted another ongoing project near Dhangarhi. A second bridge, approximately 175.60 meters long and constructed at a cost of ₹18.43 crore, is nearing completion near the Dhangarhi bridge site.
Officials stated that this additional structure is expected to be dedicated to the public soon, further strengthening regional connectivity.
Strengthening Kumaon–Garhwal Link
Speaking at the event, Union Minister Ajay Tamta emphasized that the new bridge will enhance the vital link between Kumaon and Garhwal regions. He noted that improved infrastructure will benefit:
- Trade and agriculture
- Tourism and travel
- Education and healthcare services
The project is also expected to improve accessibility for pilgrims traveling to the Char Dham circuit and tourists visiting Jim Corbett National Park.
The inauguration of the Dhangarhi Bridge marks a significant infrastructure milestone for Uttarakhand. By addressing long-standing monsoon-related disruptions and improving connectivity on NH-309, the project is expected to bring lasting benefits to transportation, tourism, and the regional economy.
With improved safety and year-round accessibility, the bridge is set to become a crucial link between Kumaon and Garhwal, supporting both local development and tourism growth in the region.
Read also: Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami Approves ₹105 Crore Development Projects Ahead of Kumbh Mela 2027
