Dehradun: The Uttarakhand government has approved development projects worth ₹38 crore to strengthen infrastructure and improve public amenities across the state. The approvals were granted during a meeting of the Empowered Finance Committee chaired by Chief Secretary Anand Bardhan at the Dehradun Secretariat.
Key Road and Bridge Projects
New Cant Road to Be Widened
To reduce traffic congestion on one of Dehradun’s busiest routes, New Cant Road will be upgraded from two lanes to three lanes between Dilaram Bazaar and Vijay Colony Bridge. The project, funded under the Urban Infrastructure Development Fund (UIDF), will cost ₹12.58 crore.
The work will not only widen the road but also involve relocating electricity lines underground and reorganizing drinking water pipelines to prevent future road excavation.
Masoori Highway to Get New 2-Lane Bridge
To address growing traffic and safety concerns, the old single-lane bridge near Sahaspur on Mussoorie State Highway-1 (KM 18) will be replaced with a 60-meter-long modern two-lane steel box bridge at a cost of ₹12.01 crore.
The bridge will be constructed according to Class-A loading standards, ensuring safe and smooth travel for tourists and local residents heading to Mussoorie.
Read also: Chief Secretary Anand Bardhan Reviews Setu Commission, Emphasises Policy Reforms and Hill Economy
Drinking Water Project in Pithoragarh
To tackle chronic water scarcity in hilly regions, the Ghat Pumping Drinking Water Project in Pithoragarh has been approved at ₹13.39 crore.
The project includes replacing the old and damaged rising main pipeline, which will reduce water wastage and ensure continuous supply of safe drinking water to the region’s residents.
Ramnagar Bus Terminal Budget Faces Scrutiny
During the meeting, Chief Secretary Anand Bardhan expressed strong objection to the revised budget for the Ramnagar Bus Terminal.
A significant portion of the project’s total cost was allocated only to site development and foundation work, prompting the CS to halt the approval.
He emphasized the need for full transparency in public fund utilization and instructed the PWD HOD and MD of the Water Corporation to form an expert committee to review the high-cost components and submit a detailed feasibility report.
The Chief Secretary also warned that no proposal should be presented to the high-level committee without evaluating its public interest and practicality.
Government Focus on Public Convenience
These projects highlight the Uttarakhand government’s commitment to:
- Reducing traffic congestion in urban areas
- Ensuring safe and modern infrastructure
- Providing reliable drinking water in hilly regions
- Maintaining transparency and accountability in public spending
