Garhwal Post Bureau
Dehradun/New Delhi: Uttarakhand Minister of Tourism, Public Works, Irrigation, Rural Construction, Religious Affairs, and Culture, Satpal Maharaj paid a courtesy visit on Union Home Minister Amit Shah and presented him with a book published by Uttarakhand Tourism. The publication highlights how the state government has successfully repurposed unused bridges by developing cafeterias on them. The Home Minister highly appreciated this innovative initiative.
During the meeting at the Home Minister’s official residence, Satpal Maharaj discussed several issues related to the Integrated Check Post (ICP), Banbasa, being developed along the India–Nepal border. He also raised concerns regarding the slow pace of construction of the approach road (National Highway) connecting to ICP Banbasa.
The Minister pointed out that delays in the construction of the approach road could adversely affect the progress and timely completion of the Integrated Check Post project. He emphasised the importance of ensuring adequate connectivity to facilitate the successful execution of the strategic infrastructure project.
During the discussion, Maharaj also submitted a formal letter to the Home Minister explaining that access to the construction site is currently dependent on a bridge with a load capacity of only 10 tonnes. This limitation has created significant challenges in transporting heavy construction materials and machinery required for the project.
He stressed that accelerating the construction of the approach road is essential to ensure the timely progress and completion of the ICP Banbasa project.
The Cabinet Minister also held detailed discussions with the Home Minister regarding the proposed Tripod Project to be developed between Banbasa (India) and Mahendranagar (Nepal). The project is expected to play an important role in strengthening cross-border connectivity, trade, and regional development.
Maharaj expressed confidence that with the support of the Central Government, the pending infrastructure requirements associated with the ICP and Tripod projects would be addressed expeditiously, contributing to improved connectivity and economic growth in the region.
