Dehradun: The Mussoorie-Dehradun Development Authority (MDDA) continues to work tirelessly towards environmental conservation, urban development, and strengthening public amenities. Vice Chairman Bhanushidhar Tiwari, accompanied by senior officials, inspected multiple ongoing projects. He made it clear that no laxity or negligence would be tolerated in development works. The inspection covered roads, sewer lines, drainage systems, residential projects, and other critical infrastructure.
Grand Yamuna Ghat at Kalsi to be Inaugurated in July
One of the highlights of the inspection was the ongoing construction of the Yamuna Ghat at Haripur Kalsi. This will be Uttarakhand’s first grand Yamuna Ghat, and Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has directed that the project be completed by July. The ghat, approximately 170 metres long and 15 metres wide, is being developed under the Namami Gange programme. It will feature facilities for Yamuna Aarti, bathing ghats, tourism amenities, and other modern conveniences.
Vice Chairman Tiwari stated, “The Kalsi Ghat will not only become a significant religious centre but will also boost tourism in the region. We are committed to ensuring that the construction is completed with the highest quality and within the stipulated timeline.” Once completed, the project is expected to provide a major boost to the local economy, offer better facilities to devotees and tourists, and preserve the area’s rich cultural heritage. Kalsi is historically renowned for the rock edicts of Emperor Ashoka, adding further cultural significance to the ghat.
Focus on Speed and Quality in Development Works
Tiwari also reviewed the Aalayam Residential Project. He instructed officials to complete sewer lines, drainage systems, and other basic amenities by June 30. Special emphasis was placed on accelerating the construction of studio apartments while strictly maintaining quality standards. This project aims to meet the growing demand for modern housing in the region.
Strict Action Against Illegal Plotting and Constructions
MDDA is taking strong action against illegal plotting and unauthorised constructions within its jurisdiction. Recently, illegal plotting spread over 40-50 bighas of land in the Purukul area and near the Mussoorie Ropeway was demolished. Acting on the directions of Vice Chairman Tiwari, the MDDA team used bulldozers to remove unauthorised roads, boundary walls, and other structures built without permission.
Bhanushidhar Tiwari said, “Public interest and quality are our top priorities. Illegal constructions not only violate the Master Plan but also harm the environment and traffic management. We are cracking down firmly on all such activities.”
Emphasis on Environmental Protection
MDDA has set an ambitious target of planting one lakh trees in Dehradun. Tiwari appealed to builders to actively participate in the tree-planting drive along roadsides. Progress on City Park and other green spaces was also reviewed during the inspection. Officials and contractors were given strict warnings to avoid any carelessness in execution. Directions were issued to ensure 120 KW power arrangements and 90 per cent work completion on time.