Dehradun: In a decisive move aimed at safeguarding Uttarakhand from increasing natural disasters, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has issued strict directives to immediately halt all new construction activities in sensitive areas, including riverbanks, streams, and landslide-prone regions.
The Chief Minister made this announcement during a high-level review meeting attended by senior administrative and police officials. The instructions come amid growing concerns over the ecological vulnerability of the hill state, which has witnessed multiple disasters over the years, including flash floods, landslides, and glacial bursts.
Construction Banned Near Rivers, Streams, and Natural Water Sources
CM Dhami categorically stated that no government or private construction will be permitted on:
- Riverbanks
- Streams and natural watercourses
- Landslide and avalanche-prone areas
Any location marked as geologically sensitive or ecologically fragile
The Chief Minister emphasized that these measures are necessary to prevent loss of life and property during monsoon seasons and extreme weather events, which have intensified in recent years due to climate change and unregulated development.
Strict Instructions to District Magistrates, Monitoring to Be Ensured
The CM has directed that all District Magistrates (DMs) across the state be issued clear and immediate guidelines to implement the ban. Regular monitoring and strict compliance have been mandated, with Dhami warning of disciplinary action against any officer found violating the directives.
“Any violation of these instructions will be viewed seriously. Officers will be held accountable. Preventive action is not just policy—it is a responsibility,” said CM Dhami.
Identification of High-Risk Zones Prioritised
During the meeting, Dhami instructed officials to urgently identify and map all vulnerable zones, including:
- Flood-prone areas
- Landslide and avalanche risk zones
- Geologically unstable slopes
This mapping exercise is expected to help in early disaster preparedness, policy planning, and controlling unplanned urbanisation in ecologically sensitive areas.
Focus on Preventive and Public Interest-Oriented Measures
CM Dhami stressed that disaster prevention measures must be proactive and not reactive. All construction and development in Uttarakhand must prioritise public safety, environmental balance, and sustainable development, he added.
Top Officials Present at High-Level Meeting
The meeting was attended by key officials, including:
- R.K. Sudhanshu, Principal Secretary
- R. Meenakshi Sundaram, Principal Advisor to CM
- Shailesh Bagoli, Secretary
- A.P. Anshuman, Additional Director General of Police
- Dr. Parag Madhukar Dhakate, Special Secretary
- Banshidhar Tiwari, Additional Secretary
They have been entrusted with formulating clear implementation strategies and ensuring that the district-level machinery is aligned with the state’s disaster mitigation goals.
