Uttarakhand Chief Minister Inaugurates Major Sharda River Corridor Project in Champawat
In a significant move to boost regional development, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami laid the foundation stone for the ambitious Sharda River Corridor project on Saturday. The ceremony took place at Tanakpur in Champawat district, marking the commencement of a large-scale infrastructure and tourism initiative designed to transform the area.
CM Dhami Highlights Project's Economic and Cultural Impact
Addressing a gathering at the event, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami emphasized the project's importance, stating, "The Sharda corridor is a commitment made during the election campaign and will play a key role in the district's development." He elaborated that this initiative is expected to support economic activity, enhance religious tourism, and promote cultural initiatives in Champawat, while simultaneously creating employment opportunities for local youth.
The Sharda River Corridor project encompasses nearly 200 square kilometers of Champawat district, with a total proposed investment of Rs 3,300 crore allocated across various components. This substantial funding underscores the government's dedication to fostering growth and sustainability in the region.
First Phase Inaugurations and Future Plans
As part of the initial phase, CM Dhami inaugurated several key projects, including:
- The redevelopment of Sharda Ghat, constructed at a cost of Rs 10.7 crore.
- The first phase of the Tanakpur city drainage system, valued at Rs 66 crore.
- A new helipad at Chuka.
- A multi-storey parking facility to accommodate increasing visitor traffic.
Looking ahead, the Sharda River Corridor plan proposes facilities for adventure tourism, such as river rafting on the Sharda River and paragliding activities. These additions aim to attract thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts, further diversifying the tourism offerings in Uttarakhand.
Enhancing Religious Tourism and Cultural Heritage
Dhami also announced plans to extend the Purnagiri mela beyond its current three-month schedule, with the goal of attracting visitors throughout the year. This move is part of a broader effort to boost religious tourism and ensure sustained economic benefits for the local community.
Furthermore, the Chief Minister highlighted the state government's ongoing focus on the conservation and development of cultural heritage sites. Key temples mentioned include those at Devidhura, Bageshwar, Jageshwar, Patal Bhuvaneshwar, and the Goljyu temple in Champawat. These efforts are integral to preserving Uttarakhand's rich cultural legacy while promoting it as a tourist destination.
The launch of the Sharda River Corridor project represents a pivotal step in Uttarakhand's development strategy, aiming to harness natural and cultural assets for economic growth, job creation, and enhanced tourism infrastructure.
