Dehradun: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Friday inaugurated the renovation and restoration of Jugmandar Hall at the Dehradun Municipal Corporation, marking a significant step toward preserving the city’s cultural heritage while accelerating urban development.
₹2.32 Crore Project to Preserve Cultural Heritage
The restoration of Jugmandar Hall, completed at a cost of ₹2.32 crore, is part of the state government’s broader effort to protect and promote Dehradun’s historical and cultural identity. The initiative aligns with the vision of balancing modernization with heritage conservation.
Foundation Stone Laid for Canal and Park Development Plans
During the event, Dhami also laid the foundation stone for a canal project at the ABC Centre in Kedarpuram. In addition, he announced the development and beautification of parks at six different locations across the municipal area, aimed at enhancing green spaces for residents.
‘Development Along with Heritage’ Vision Highlighted
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to “development along with heritage.” He stated that under the leadership of Narendra Modi, urban transformation is being driven through flagship initiatives like Swachh Bharat Mission, AMRUT Mission, Smart Cities Mission, and Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana.
These programs aim to improve sanitation, water supply, sewerage systems, green infrastructure, and affordable housing for economically weaker sections.
₹1,400 Crore Projects Transforming Dehradun
Dhami revealed that development projects worth over ₹1,400 crore are currently underway to modernize Dehradun. Key initiatives include:
- A mechanized waste transfer station
- An Integrated Command and Control Centre for real-time waste management monitoring
- Expansion of green infrastructure and public amenities
Green Spaces and Sustainable Initiatives Expand
The Chief Minister highlighted the development of 35 parks across the city, including a yoga-themed park in Kedarpuram and memorial parks dedicated to martyrs. These projects are adding over 50,000 square metres of green space.
Efforts to promote sustainability include the construction of recharge pits for water conservation and the operation of 30 electric buses supported by 11 EV charging stations.
Dehradun has also secured the 19th position nationally under the National Clean Air Programme, reflecting improvements in air quality.
Infrastructure Boost with Expressway and Elevated Roads
The upcoming inauguration of the Delhi-Dehradun Expressway by Prime Minister Modi is expected to significantly enhance regional connectivity. Additionally, plans for elevated roads over the Rispana and Bindal rivers aim to reduce traffic congestion in the city.
Improved Municipal Performance and Revenue Growth
Praising the Dehradun Municipal Corporation, Dhami noted a substantial increase in revenue collection—from ₹52 crore to ₹73 crore. Door-to-door waste collection services have also expanded, with vehicles increasing from around 200 to nearly 300.
He reiterated the government’s firm stance against encroachment on public land and urged both officials and citizens to actively participate in protecting it.
Call for Collective Effort Toward a Modern Dehradun
Concluding his address, the Chief Minister called on citizens to work together in transforming Dehradun into a clean, green, and modern city, blending infrastructure growth with cultural preservation.
With major investments in infrastructure, sustainability, and heritage conservation, Uttarakhand is positioning Dehradun as a model city that reflects both modern aspirations and cultural roots.
