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

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has sanctioned approximately ₹227 crore for a range of infrastructure development projects across the state. The approved funds will bolster preparations for the 2027 Haridwar Kumbh Mela, enhance road connectivity, upgrade police infrastructure, and support welfare measures for ex-servicemen families.

The largest portion of the funding, ₹98.18 crore, is allocated for constructing ghats and an Astha Path along the left bank of the Ganga River in the Gaurishankar area, downstream of Chandi Ghat. An additional ₹115.91 crore has been earmarked for similar development works on the right bank of the Ganga in the Bairagi Camp area, crucial for hosting the massive pilgrimage.

Beyond Kumbh Mela preparations, the Chief Minister approved a ₹11.95 crore project for utility relocation to facilitate the widening of the 1.65-km New Cantt Road in Dehradun from two lanes to three. In Haridwar district, ₹96.59 lakh has been sanctioned for the administrative building of the Sultanpur police outpost.

Further welfare initiatives include ₹36.84 lakh from the Chief Minister's Assistance Fund for scholarships to dependent students of ex-servicemen pursuing higher education in engineering, medical, and PhD courses. Dhami also approved an increase in dearness relief for public sector pensioners to 60% per month, effective January 1, 2026. These sanctions aim to strengthen public infrastructure, improve connectivity, support Kumbh-related facilities, and extend welfare support.