Infrastructure – Dehradun Advances Heritage Restoration and Urban Development Plans
Infrastructure – Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Friday launched the restored Jugmandar Hall at the Dehradun Municipal Corporation, marking a step toward preserving the city’s cultural landmarks. The renovation project, completed at a cost of ₹2.32 crore, is part of a broader effort to maintain Dehradun’s historical character while supporting its urban growth.
Focus on Cultural Preservation and Civic Expansion
During the event, the Chief Minister also laid the foundation stone for a new canal project at the ABC Centre in Kedarpuram. In addition, he announced plans to develop and beautify six parks within the municipal limits, aiming to enhance public spaces for residents.
Dhami emphasized that the government is working with a dual approach that balances infrastructure development with the protection of cultural heritage. He noted that Dehradun’s identity is closely tied to its history, and efforts are being made to ensure that modernization does not overshadow its legacy.
Central Schemes Supporting Urban Transformation
Highlighting ongoing initiatives, the Chief Minister pointed to several national missions driving urban improvements. Programmes such as Swachh Bharat, AMRUT, Smart City, and Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana have contributed to better sanitation, improved water supply systems, enhanced sewerage networks, expanded green zones, and affordable housing for economically weaker sections.
According to officials, these schemes have played a key role in reshaping Dehradun’s civic infrastructure and raising overall living standards in the city.
Large-Scale Projects and Smart Monitoring Systems
Dhami stated that development projects worth more than ₹1,400 crore are currently underway in Dehradun. These include the establishment of a mechanised waste transfer station and an Integrated Command and Control Centre designed to monitor waste management operations in real time.
Such measures are expected to improve efficiency in garbage collection and disposal, contributing to cleaner urban surroundings.
Expansion of Green Spaces and Eco-Friendly Measures
The city has seen the development of 35 parks, including a yoga-themed park in Kedarpuram. Special memorial parks dedicated to martyrs have also been created. Together, these additions have increased green space in the city by more than 50,000 square meters.
Water conservation has also been prioritized through the construction of recharge pits across different areas. In line with sustainable transport goals, 30 electric buses are now operational, supported by 11 electric vehicle charging stations. Dehradun has also secured the 19th position nationally under the National Clean Air Programme, reflecting gradual improvements in air quality.
Improved Connectivity and Future Road Projects
Looking ahead, the Chief Minister announced that the Delhi-Dehradun Expressway is expected to be inaugurated soon by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This project is anticipated to significantly reduce travel time and strengthen connectivity between the two regions.
Plans are also being prepared for elevated road corridors over the Rispana and Bindal rivers. These proposed routes aim to ease traffic congestion and improve mobility within the city.
Municipal Performance and Public Participation
Praising the Dehradun Municipal Corporation, Dhami noted a steady rise in revenue collection, which has increased from ₹52 crore to ₹73 crore. The number of door-to-door waste collection vehicles has also grown substantially, reaching nearly 300 from an earlier figure of around 200.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to protecting public land from encroachment and urged both officials and citizens to remain vigilant. Public cooperation, he said, is essential for maintaining civic infrastructure and ensuring long-term urban sustainability.
Call for a Cleaner and Modern City
Concluding his address, the Chief Minister encouraged residents to actively participate in making Dehradun cleaner, greener, and more organized. He stressed that collective efforts between authorities and citizens will play a crucial role in shaping the city’s future.