Khatima: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Wednesday inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for nine development projects worth ₹33 crore and 36 lakh in Khatima, marking a major push for infrastructure and civic development in the region.
According to an official statement, the projects span transport infrastructure, water supply, public buildings, road development and community facilities, aimed at improving connectivity, amenities and employment opportunities.
High-Tech Maharana Pratap Bus Station Inaugurated
One of the key projects inaugurated was the newly constructed high-tech Maharana Pratap Bus Station, built by the District Development Authority at a cost of ₹11 crore and 27 lakh. Describing the bus station as a landmark achievement for Khatima, the Chief Minister said it would significantly improve public transport, boost local trade and tourism, and create new employment opportunities.
Addressing the gathering, CM Dhami said the inauguration of the modern bus stand during the auspicious occasion of Makar Sankranti and the Ghughutia festival added special significance. He noted that the project had been pending for a long time and was completed following repeated efforts and monitoring.
Temple Beautification and Religious Infrastructure
The Chief Minister also announced beautification works for major religious sites in the region. The Balaji Temple in Nanakmata will undergo comprehensive beautification, while renovation work will be carried out at the Brahmadev Temple near Lohiya Bridge in Khatima.
In addition, the Devbhoomi Dharamshala will be upgraded with the construction of new rooms and a hall, along with overall beautification, to better serve pilgrims and visitors.
Roads, Water Supply and Drainage Projects
As part of infrastructure enhancement, the Sonukhari–Kishanpur–Barkidandi–Kaithula–Tukdi road will be developed as a hot-mix road to improve connectivity in rural and semi-urban areas.
The Chief Minister also inaugurated water supply projects, including tube wells, overhead tanks and pipeline works worth ₹48.45 lakh in wards 7 and 8, aimed at strengthening drinking water availability.
Drainage works from the lake in Majhola village to Poliganj, costing ₹225.62 lakh, were also completed to address waterlogging and sanitation issues.
Administrative and Housing Infrastructure
Residential buildings for revenue inspectors and sub-inspectors in the Nanakmata assembly area were inaugurated, built at a cost of ₹490.21 lakh. Office buildings for sub-inspectors, constructed at a cost of ₹359.91 lakh, were also completed, strengthening administrative infrastructure in the region.
Community-Focused Development Works
Several community development projects were announced for the Khatima area. These include works worth ₹499.65 lakh for the installation of 300 hand pumps to improve access to drinking water.
A new bus terminal in Khatima will feature the Maharana Pratap Gate, to be constructed at a cost of ₹29.65 lakh. Modern public toilets will be built at a cost of ₹24.50 lakh, while the Tharu Inter College in Khatima will be reconstructed with an investment of ₹95 lakh.
Boost to Regional Growth
The Chief Minister said the collective impact of these projects would accelerate regional development by improving infrastructure, enhancing civic services and generating employment. He added that the state government remains committed to balanced development across Uttarakhand, with special focus on improving facilities in border and rural areas.
