To prevent frequent damage and disruptions on newly built roads, the Uttarakhand government is preparing a new policy that will restrict road excavation for utility work to just two months annually. The Public Works Department (PWD) has drafted the policy, which is expected to be presented in the state cabinet soon.
Currently, newly constructed roads in the state—especially in cities like Dehradun—are often dug up by other departments for laying electricity lines, water pipes, sewer systems, or telecom cables. This not only causes prolonged traffic issues but also leads to financial losses for the PWD. Unlike states such as Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand has no defined timeline or policy regulating such activities.
Under the proposed policy, all departments will be allowed to dig roads only during the designated two-month window, except in special circumstances. A Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) will also be established, setting clear timelines for starting and completing work. Departments violating the policy or damaging roads without approval will face action.
PWD Secretary Dr. Pankaj Pandey confirmed that the draft is ready and will soon be tabled in the cabinet. All construction-related departments will fall under the purview of this new regulation. Once implemented, the department will also use a Central government mobile application to monitor road excavation activities across the state in real time.
