CHAMPAWAT: Chief Secretary Anand Bardhan undertook a detailed two-day review of major development projects in Champawat district, calling for accelerated execution of infrastructure, transport, flood-protection and urban-utility works and other Champawat projects. Our correspondent reports that Bardhan reached the NHPC Banbasa helipad on Monday, where he was received by Kumaon Commissioner Deepak Rawat, District Magistrate Manish Kumar, Superintendent of Police Ajay Ganpati, CDO Dr G.S. Khati and other senior officials.
The Chief Secretary later chaired a comprehensive meeting at the NHPC auditorium in Banbasa, during which he reviewed progress on the Sharda Corridor, Inland Port Authority projects, the proposed Tanakpur–Bageshwar railway line, flood-management works, the Tanakpur and Banbasa water-supply schemes, the new ISBT at Tanakpur and several bridge-construction projects undertaken by BRIDCUL.
Bardhan instructed officials to strengthen the Integrated Command and Control Centre and ensure that progress on the Sharda Riverfront and adjoining projects remains firmly on schedule. He emphasised that the Purnagiri Ropeway, a key mobility and tourism-oriented project, must be synchronised with the larger Sharda Corridor master plan.
“The ropeway company must submit a weekly progress report to the District Magistrate without fail,” the Chief Secretary directed. “Integration of the ropeway with the corridor is essential, and accountability must remain clear at every stage.”
Railway Line Expansion: Alignment for Champawat, Lohaghat, Almora
In a significant push for regional connectivity, Bardhan directed officials to finalise a detailed alignment for the proposed Tanakpur–Bageshwar railway line that would include linkages to Champawat, Lohaghat and Almora. Officials were told to coordinate closely with technical agencies to avoid delays.
A senior official present in the meeting said: “This railway line has the potential to transform mobility in remote hill regions. The Chief Secretary wants the alignment prepared quickly so that the proposal can move to the next stage of approval.”
Reviewing flood-management efforts, particularly along vulnerable river stretches, Bardhan instructed the irrigation department to adopt innovative protection measures instead of traditional high-cost methods.
“There is no justification for delays,” Bardhan said. “We must adopt models that are cost-efficient yet strong enough to safeguard communities.”
The Chief Secretary expressed concern over delays in the Tanakpur and Banbasa water-supply schemes and instructed departments to expedite them. He also reviewed the construction of the ISBT Tanakpur, directing BRIDCUL to remove bottlenecks and present a fortnightly progress report.
Bridge construction works across multiple locations were also discussed, with Bardhan insisting on measurable timelines.
Review of Lakes, Tourism and Environmental Projects
The progress of Dipteshwar Lake and Kurmu Lake development projects was taken up during the meeting. Officials were instructed to ensure ecological sensitivity while creating tourism-friendly amenities.
Kumaon Commissioner Deepak Rawat said during the meeting: “Champawat is witnessing unprecedented development activity. With direction from the Chief Secretary, we will ensure timely completion of every project.”
District Magistrate Manish Kumar added that departments have been asked to conduct weekly field reviews. “We have already identified critical bottlenecks. The district administration is working on mission mode,” he said.
Signal to Departments: No Delays Will Be Tolerated
Officials present at the meeting noted that Bardhan’s directives clearly emphasised both speed and accountability. A senior officer said: “The message is unambiguous. Projects must move faster. Reports must be updated. Departments must coordinate instead of working in silos.”
Local representatives who attended the meeting expressed confidence that the review would bring new momentum to long-pending works.
The Chief Secretary concluded by stating that Champawat, being a priority district, will receive continuous top-level monitoring.
“Our goal is integrated, time-bound development. Every project—from rail connectivity to water supply—is essential for enhancing quality of life and boosting economic potential.”
Dheeraj reports on governance, public services, jobs, and regional developments across Uttarakhand. He specialises in recruitment news, public-sector updates, and civic issues that impact everyday citizens. His reporting brings accuracy, context, and a grassroots perspective to local journalism.
