Uttarakhand CM approves ₹227 crore for Haridwar Kumbh works, road upgrade and police infrastructure

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has given final approval for financial allocations totaling approximately ₹227 crore for a range of infrastructure and welfare initiatives across the state. The funds will be directed toward preparations for the 2027 Kumbh Mela in Haridwar, road upgrades, enhanced police facilities, and support for ex-servicemen families and pensioners. The bulk of the allocated amount, ₹98.18 crore, is earmarked for the construction of ghats and an Astha Path on the left bank of the Ganga in the Gaurishankar area, downstream of Chandi Ghat. This work is part of the extensive preparations required for the Kumbh Mela, which draws millions of pilgrims annually. A separate allocation of ₹115.91 crore has been approved for similar developments on the right bank in the Bairagi Camp area. These projects aim to improve accessibility and accommodate the large influx of visitors during the festival. In addition to the Kumbh Mela preparations, the state government has sanctioned ₹11.95 crore for a project involving the relocation of water supply lines and utility shifting associated with the widening of the 1.65-km New Cantt Road in Dehradun. The road expansion, from two lanes to three lanes, is intended to enhance traffic flow and reduce congestion in one of the city’s key thoroughfares. In Haridwar district, the first installment of ₹96.59 lakh was released towards the construction of the administrative building for the Sultanpur police outpost. The total approved cost for this project stands at ₹2.41 crore. This initiative reflects efforts to bolster law enforcement capabilities in areas frequented by pilgrims and tourists. Welfare measures have also received attention under the financial sanctioning. The Chief Minister has approved ₹36.84 lakh from the Kargil Shaheed Parivar Chief Minister Assistance Fund to provide scholarships for dependent children of ex-servicemen who are pursuing higher education in fields such as engineering, medicine, and PhD programs. This support aims to ensure educational opportunities for the families of military personnel who have made sacrifices for the nation. Furthermore, the government has decided to increase the dearness relief for civil and family pensioners of public sector entities to 60% per month, effective from January 1, 2026. This adjustment is designed to help pensioners cope with inflation and rising living costs. The allocations reflect the government's multi-pronged approach to addressing both immediate infrastructure needs and long-term social welfare concerns. By focusing on enhancing public services, improving connectivity, and providing financial assistance to vulnerable groups, the administration seeks to create a more resilient and inclusive environment for residents and visitors alike. Looking ahead, the implementation of these projects will require coordination among multiple departments and agencies. The success of the Kumbh Mela preparations will depend on timely execution of the sanctioned works, while the welfare initiatives will rely on efficient distribution of funds and monitoring of their impact. As the state moves forward with these plans, continued oversight and transparency will be essential to ensuring that the benefits reach those intended.