Dhami Emphasizes Better Chardham Yatra Management and Forest Fire Prevention
DEHRADUN: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Monday directed all District Magistrates via video conference to prioritize prompt redressal of public grievances, ensuring transparency and accountability in governance. During a comprehensive review of the upcoming Chardham Yatra preparations, he stressed the importance of coordinated efforts with local representatives, hoteliers, and stakeholders to ensure smooth arrangements.
Highlighting the significance of the Chardham Yatra as both a spiritual pilgrimage and a vital source of livelihood for locals, CM Dhami urged all departments and district administrations to enhance planning and execution. He emphasized the need for a clean, beautiful, and eco-friendly Yatra, urging active public participation in cleanliness drives and beautification efforts. He also directed that the convenience of pilgrims be a top priority, especially in terms of traffic management to prevent congestion and discomfort.
In light of increasing forest fire incidents, the Chief Minister instructed District Magistrates and the Forest Department to strengthen forest fire preparedness. He called for adequate equipment in high-risk areas, formation of mobile patrol teams, and updated contact lists of local residents and representatives for swift response. Continuous monitoring and rapid response mechanisms were emphasized to control fire outbreaks effectively.
Addressing concerns over summer water scarcity, Dhami ordered officials to ensure uninterrupted drinking water supply. He mandated swift resolution of any issues and sufficient deployment of water tankers. District-level meetings are to be held to proactively address water-related challenges, with special attention to be paid to flood-prone and waterlogged areas as the monsoon approaches.
The Chief Minister reiterated the importance of regular public hearings by District Magistrates and maximizing citizen benefits through Tehsil Diwas, BDC meetings, and multipurpose camps. He directed officials to minimize the need for in-person visits to government offices by promoting e-services, and warned against unnecessary delays in public service delivery. Complaints regarding inflated electricity bills must be resolved promptly, and the installation of smart meters should be expedited.
A strong stance was taken on internal security and unauthorized administrative practices. CM Dhami ordered strict action, including suspension and termination proceedings, against any personnel found issuing Aadhar cards, voter IDs, or utility connections to ineligible individuals. He underscored that such actions compromise state security and will not be tolerated.
He also called for intensified vigilance on outsiders and suspicious activities, as well as stringent action against illegal encroachments. Divisional Commissioners have been instructed to conduct field visits and submit detailed progress reports to the Chief Minister’s Office ahead of the next review meeting.
The meeting was attended by Principal Secretary R.K. Sudhanshu, Commissioner Kumaon Deepak Rawat, Commissioner Garhwal Vinay Shankar Pandey, and all District Magistrates.
