By Our Staff Reporter
Dehradun/Kotdwar, 26 May: Kotdwar witnessed a major push in infrastructure development today as Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami virtually inaugurated seven projects in Pauri district, including the protective work on the Malan Bridge along the Chillerkhal-Pakhro motor road. Addressing the public in virtual mode, the CM emphasised that the reconstruction of the Malan Bridge reflects the government’s commitment to improving essential infrastructure in remote parts of Uttarakhand. He asserted that the bridge’s reopening will facilitate smoother commuting for residents of Kotdwar and surrounding rural areas while enhancing economic activities.
It may be recalled that the Malan Bridge, which plays a crucial role in connecting Kotdwar and the Bhabar region to Motadhak, was severely damaged due to heavy rains in July 2023, disrupting connectivity to more than 35 villages. The completion of its reconstruction was being eagerly awaited by the local people.
Dhami asserted that, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, efforts are being made to strengthen infrastructure across sectors like education, healthcare, drinking water, roads, railways, and air connectivity. Several significant projects have been planned for Kotdwar’s development, including the construction of a state-of-the-art sewage treatment plant under the Namami Gange project at an estimated cost of Rs 135 crores, a four-lane bypass and a double-lane Kotdwar-Najibabad road with a budget of Rs 691 crores, and the upgrade of the Kotdwar-Pauri-Srinagar road to a double-lane, which, he stated will enhance travel convenience and accelerate economic growth.
On this occasion, Dhami announced that Kotdwar Railway Station is also undergoing renovation under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, while a new train service has commenced between Siddhabali-Kotdwar and Delhi. Additionally, progress is being made on the construction of a hospital and a bus stand terminal in Kotdwar, along with a proposed Kendriya Vidyalaya, whose land has already been transferred following cabinet approval. Stressing on his government’s commitment to the welfare of all sections of society, the CM assured that ongoing projects would ensure sustainable development in the region.
Assembly Speaker and Kotdwar MLA Ritu Khanduri Bhushan, also present at the event, stated that development in Kotdwar is moving forward rapidly with the Chief Minister’s support, and the repair of the damaged Malan Bridge was completed efficiently. Several dignitaries, including Kotdwar Municipal Corporation Mayor Shailendra Singh Rawat, BJP District President Raj Gaurav Nautiyal, and District Magistrate Ashish Chauhan, attended the inauguration ceremony.
The inaugurated projects include critical protective works on several key bridges and roads, such as the Malan Bridge over the Malan River, the Sukhrau Bridge, and the Grastanganj and Gooler bridges on the Khoh River. Strengthening work has also begun on the Chillerkhal-Sigaddi-Kotdwar-Pakhro motor road. Alongside these projects, Dhami made several new announcements, including strengthening of the Meerut-Pauri highway, laying of pipelines under the Sigaddi urban drinking water scheme, and undertaking repair and protective works for irrigation canals and flood protection initiatives under the State Disaster Mitigation Fund.
