Dehradun: The Uttarakhand government has placed a strong focus on roads and infrastructure development in its latest budget to ensure that remote mountain villages are connected to the mainstream of development.
According to Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, the state is working to improve connectivity in 57 mountainous regions through the construction of tunnels, bridges, and modern infrastructure projects. The initiative aims to make travel easier and ensure that development reaches even the most remote settlements.
Focus on Last-Mile Connectivity
The state government has identified last-mile connectivity as a key priority. The goal is to ensure that roads and basic infrastructure reach the last village located in the mountainous terrain.
Improving road connectivity in remote hill regions is expected to make transportation easier for residents while also enabling better access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and employment opportunities.
Officials believe that strengthening the road network will help integrate isolated villages into the state’s economic and social development framework.
Major Budget Allocations for Rural Development
To accelerate infrastructure expansion, the government has announced several significant budget allocations:
- ₹1,642 crore allocated for rural development capital expenditure
- ₹1,050 crore allocated under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY)
- ₹2,502 crore allocated to the Public Works Department (PWD) for construction and improvement of roads and bridges
These investments are expected to speed up road construction projects and strengthen connectivity between villages, towns, and remote mountainous areas.
Additional Infrastructure Initiatives
Apart from major allocations, the state government has also earmarked funds for specific infrastructure initiatives:
- ₹400 crore for the pothole-free road campaign aimed at improving road quality across the state
- ₹10 crore for the Tehri Ring Road Project, which is expected to improve connectivity in the Tehri Garhwal region
These projects aim to enhance the overall road infrastructure and improve travel conditions for residents and tourists alike.
Economic and Social Benefits Expected
The government believes that improved road connectivity will significantly boost economic activities in rural and mountainous regions. Better transport networks will make it easier for farmers to bring agricultural produce to markets, helping them receive better prices.
In addition, improved access to tourist destinations in the Himalayan region is expected to strengthen the state’s tourism sector and support local businesses.
Better road infrastructure will also enable easier access to schools, hospitals, and employment opportunities, which could lead to a significant improvement in the quality of life in remote hill areas.
