Dehradun: In a significant move to strengthen rural connectivity, the central government has approved more than 10,000 kilometers of rural road projects under Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana-4 (PMGSY-4) for Uttarakhand and five other states. The initiative is expected to connect 3,270 villages and habitations across the country that are currently cut off from all-weather road access.
Big Relief for Remote and Disaster-Prone Areas of Uttarakhand
For hill state Uttarakhand, where road connectivity remains a major challenge, the approval is being seen as a major relief. Many villages in the state still lack proper access to hospitals, schools, and markets, making daily life difficult, especially during emergencies.
The new road projects will primarily benefit remote and disaster-prone regions, where landslides, heavy rainfall, and flash floods frequently disrupt connectivity.
Need for All-Weather Roads Still High in the State
According to official assessments, thousands of kilometers of rural roads are still required in Uttarakhand. In many areas, existing roads are either kutcha or not usable throughout the year. During the monsoon season, roads often get washed away or blocked due to landslides, cutting off villages for months.
Special Priority for Hill States Under PMGSY-4
Hilly states like Uttarakhand have been given special priority under the fourth phase of PMGSY. As per the scheme guidelines, villages with a population of 250 or more (based on the 2011 Census) will be connected by roads, ensuring that even small and remote habitations are included.
The overall target of PMGSY-4 is to construct 62,500 kilometers of all-weather rural roads across the country.
Bridges to Strengthen Connectivity in Mountain Regions
The scheme also includes the construction of bridges at critical locations. This is particularly important for Uttarakhand, where seasonal rivers and mountain streams (gadheras) frequently damage roads and isolate villages during the rainy season.
Boost to Healthcare, Education, Markets and Rural Tourism
Improved road connectivity will bring healthcare, education, and employment opportunities closer to rural communities. Farmers, orchard owners, and self-employed villagers will be able to transport their produce to markets more easily, reducing costs and losses.
The initiative is also expected to give a major push to rural tourism, homestays, and other local livelihood activities, strengthening the state’s local economy.
Step Towards Inclusive Rural Development
With the approval of these road projects under PMGSY-4, the central government aims to ensure inclusive development by improving last-mile connectivity, especially in challenging terrains like Uttarakhand.
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