Dehradun: Reinforcing Uttarakhand‘s commitment to sustainable transport and environmental conservation, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Tuesday distributed subsidy cheques to the first beneficiaries under the Uttarakhand Clean Mobility Transformation Policy-2024 and flagged off 11 clean-fuel vehicles.
The event, held at the Mukhya Sevak Sadan (Chief Minister’s Camp Office), marked the beginning of financial assistance under the state’s flagship clean mobility initiative. Six vehicle owners received subsidy cheques comprising capital grants and incentive amounts, while the Transport Department completed the subsidy approval process for five additional beneficiaries.
Government Committed to Eco-Friendly Transport
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said the financial assistance represented much more than a subsidy.
“It is a symbol of the State Government’s resolve to build a clean, modern and eco-friendly transport system,” he said.
According to Dhami, the initiative will encourage the adoption of clean-fuel public transport in urban areas, reduce pollution caused by diesel-powered vehicles and strengthen environmental conservation efforts across the state.
Balancing Development and Environment
The Chief Minister observed that climate change has emerged as one of the biggest global challenges, making it essential to pursue development without compromising ecological balance.
He said meaningful development is possible only when it remains in harmony with nature and ensures a safe and healthy future for coming generations.
Highlighting Uttarakhand’s ecological significance, Dhami described the Himalayan state as ‘Devbhoomi’, home to the origins of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers and endowed with rich forests, biodiversity and fragile mountain ecosystems.
He stressed that protecting this natural heritage is a collective responsibility of both the government and the public.
Policy to Promote Green Public Transport
The Chief Minister said the Uttarakhand Clean Mobility Transformation Policy-2024 has been formulated to modernise urban public transport while reducing dependence on old diesel-run vehicles.
The policy seeks to promote transport systems powered by CNG and other clean fuels, improve urban mobility and create a sustainable transport ecosystem across the state.
He expressed confidence that the initiative would lay a strong foundation for safe, clean and environmentally friendly transportation in Uttarakhand.
Green Development Aligned with National Vision
Dhami said the state’s initiatives are aligned with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, under whose leadership India has emerged as a global advocate of green energy and sustainable development.
He referred to several national initiatives, including:
- India’s Net Zero emissions target by 2070
- The Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE) campaign
- PM e-Bus Sewa
- Expansion of solar and renewable energy
According to the Chief Minister, these programmes reflect India’s commitment to combating climate change while pursuing economic growth.
Expansion of Electric Mobility Infrastructure
The Chief Minister highlighted that Uttarakhand is steadily expanding the operation of electric buses in Dehradun, Haridwar and Haldwani.
To support the transition towards clean mobility, the government is also establishing EV charging stations across the state.
He added that work on ropeway projects and modern urban transport systems is progressing rapidly, which will improve connectivity, reduce traffic congestion in hill areas and lower vehicular pollution.
Focus on Renewable Energy
Dhami said the government’s vision extends beyond transport reforms to creating Uttarakhand as a model state for green development.
He highlighted the progress achieved under the PM Surya Ghar Yojana, noting that the state surpassed its initial target of installing 40,000 rooftop solar plants ahead of schedule.
According to him, nearly 95 per cent of the overall rooftop solar target has already been achieved, placing Uttarakhand among the leading states in clean energy adoption.
The government now aims to position Uttarakhand as a national leader in green transport, renewable energy and sustainable development.
Beneficiaries Called Pioneers of Green Revolution
Congratulating the first recipients of the subsidy, the Chief Minister described them as pioneers of Uttarakhand’s green transport revolution.
He expressed hope that their participation would encourage more vehicle owners to shift towards clean-fuel vehicles.
Dhami also emphasised that lasting environmental transformation requires active public participation, urging citizens to become partners in building a cleaner and more sustainable transport system.
Dignitaries Present
The programme was attended by Transport Minister Pradeep Batra, Cabinet Minister Ganesh Joshi, MLA Savita Kapoor, Dehradun Mayor Saurabh Thapliyal, Transport Secretary Ravinath Raman, senior Transport Department officials and other dignitaries.
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