Dehradun: The Uttarakhand Public Works Department (PWD) has announced an ambitious ₹74,100 crore master plan aimed at transforming the state’s road connectivity and infrastructure over the next five years. The plan focuses on rural road upgrades, urban traffic decongestion, tourism connectivity, and improved road safety.
Massive Push to Upgrade Rural Roads
A major portion of the budget—₹55,000 crore—has been allocated to convert 5,735 km of unpaved (kutcha) roads into paved (pucca) roads. This initiative is expected to benefit approximately 8.24 lakh people by improving access to remote villages and boosting local economies.
The first phase of the plan prioritizes rural connectivity, with a target completion timeline extending to 2031.
₹12,000 Crore for Urban Traffic Improvement
To tackle rising congestion in cities, ₹12,000 crore has been earmarked for urban transport infrastructure. Key developments include:
- Elevated corridors
- Ring roads
- Tunnel-based bypass systems
In Dehradun, projects in the Rispana-Bindal region aim to significantly reduce traffic pressure and improve mobility.
Boost to Tourism and Economic Corridors
The government plans to invest ₹1,350 crore in developing tourism and economic hubs. Key highlights include:
- Strengthening connectivity to religious sites under the Manaskhand Mandir Mala Mission in Kumaon
- Developing a Lake Ring Road around Tehri Lake to promote adventure tourism
- Improving links to industrial hubs in Udham Singh Nagar
- Enhancing connectivity with the Amritsar-Kolkata Industrial Corridor
These initiatives are expected to accelerate economic growth and attract more tourists to the state.
Bridge Upgrades and New Construction
The plan includes ₹1,500 crore for bridge infrastructure:
- 1,200 Class-B bridges will be upgraded to Class-A
- 91 dilapidated bridges will undergo repairs
- Under the Zero Trolley Mission, all trolley systems will be replaced with permanent bridges by 2030
Focus on Road Safety and Landslide Management
₹4,250 crore has been allocated for road safety improvements. Measures include:
- Treatment of landslide-prone zones
- Strengthening road engineering standards
- Enhancing safety infrastructure across highways and rural roads
Smart Infrastructure and Innovation
The final phase of the master plan emphasizes modernization and innovation in road construction and management. Authorities aim to integrate advanced technologies and sustainable practices into infrastructure development.
This comprehensive master plan positions Uttarakhand for a major infrastructure upgrade, focusing on connectivity, safety, tourism, and economic growth. With targeted investments across rural and urban areas, the initiative is expected to significantly improve quality of life and boost the state’s development trajectory over the coming years.
