Garhwal Post Bureau
Tanakpur, (Champawat), 24 Oct: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami launched the first phase of the Sharda Corridor Project at Sharda Ghat, Tanakpur, here today. This project is being developed at an estimated cost of Rs 185.20 crores. He described the project as a centre of faith, cultural heritage, and sustainable development, symbolising the harmonious blend of tradition and progress.
On this occasion, the CM said the objective of the Sharda Corridor is to develop the region from Banbasa to Mata Rankochi as a beautiful confluence of religion, nature, and employment. He stated that this sacred land will no longer remain merely a centre of devotion but will also open new avenues of economic prosperity and livelihood for the local people.
Dhami shared that the first phase of the project, ‘Sharda Ghat Redevelopment Project’, will result in an environmentally sensitive, clean, safe, and attractive appearance of the banks of River Sharda. It includes the construction of safe bathing ghats, Aarti sites, sanitation and rest facilities, approach roads, footpaths, lighting, and beautification works. The Aarti site, the CM observed, will be built with international-level technology and modern features such as a rainwater harvesting system and a floor cooling mechanism. He added that flood resistant structures will also be developed to regulate the river’s flow and ensure the safety of surrounding areas.
Emphasising the economic and social potential of the initiative, the CM said the project would give new momentum to religious tourism, strengthen the local economy, and generate employment opportunities in the region. He described the project as a unique model of development that integrates social, cultural, and environmental aspects, making it a symbol of balanced growth for the entire region.
Dhami mentioned that certain portions of the project fall within forest land, and the process of land transfer is under way in coordination with the Forest Department. The project is being implemented through the Uttarakhand Infrastructure and Industrial Development Board (UIIDB). He assured that the transfer of revenue land in areas such as Danda and Chuka would also be expedited to prevent any delay.
Highlighting the ecological and cultural dimensions, Dhami said that the Purnagiri and Mata Rankochi zones, envisaged as the spiritual and cultural centres of the corridor, will offer a unique blend of devotion, forest experience, wildlife, and nature education. He reiterated that environmental sensitivity would remain the foremost priority, preserving the sanctity of the river and the natural balance of the area.
Dhami announced that the development of the Sharda Corridor would be carried out with public participation, transparency, and ecological balance. He assured that the views and participation of local citizens would be integral to every stage of decision-making. He added that the Sharda Corridor is not just geographical development but a reawakening of the Sanatan faith and soul. It will set an example for future generations where tradition and modernity move together.
The first phase of the project, costing Rs 185.20 crores, also comprises the Kiroda Nala Ecological Corridor (Rs 109.57 crores) for biodiversity conservation and disaster resilience, the City Drainage Scheme- Phase I (Rs 62.11 crores) for improving urban drainage and rainwater management, and the construction of an alternate route to Thaik Village (Rs 5.34 crores), once known as Jim Corbett’s last hunting trail, which will be developed into a safe and accessible route for pilgrims. Several other works are also planned under this phase.
Among those present at the event were Shyam Narayan Pandey and Shankar Koranga, District Panchayat President Anand Singh Adhikari, Block Chief Anchala Bohra, BJP District President Govind Samant, DM, Champawat, Manish Kumar, SP Ajay Ganapati, Chief Development Officer Dr GS Khati, ADM Krishna Nath Goswami besides other public representatives and local people.
