Ahead of the budget session, the Uttarakhand cabinet, led by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, approved the State Road Safety Policy 2025 in a meeting held on Wednesday. The cabinet also sanctioned a forest fire management policy, under which Van Panchayats and Mangal Dals will receive incentive payments. Additionally, a land bank for two new townships was approved to promote planned urban development in hilly areas.
Key Decisions from the Cabinet Meeting
- Road Safety Policy 2025:
- The government plans to address rising road accidents with a structured approach.
- 11 new ARTO posts will be created for hill regions, with 50% promotions and 50% direct recruitments.
- A proposal to phase out private contract bus permits in hill areas was discussed.
- New buses will be procured for state transport services on these routes.
- Strict investigation of every accident will be mandated, ensuring accountability for the PWD, police, or transport department, based on the cause.
- Forest Fire Management Policy:
- Incentives for Van Panchayats and Mangal Dals to enhance local fire management efforts.
- Planned Township Development:
- Land banks approved for two new townships, aimed at structured urban growth in mountainous regions.
Additionally, an economic survey report may be presented during the budget session in the state assembly.
