Nainital: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Friday chaired a high-level divisional review meeting in Nainital, bringing together public representatives and senior administrative officials from the six districts of Kumaon Division—Nainital, Almora, Pithoragarh, Bageshwar, Champawat and Udham Singh Nagar.
During the meeting, CM reviewed the progress of Central and State Government development schemes and issued firm directives to ensure greater transparency, efficiency and public outreach. He stressed, “Now there will be no room for corruption; accountability will be firmly established.”
Strengthening Public Interface
To improve direct engagement with the public, CM Dhami instructed officials to prioritize grievance redressal through Jandarshan, Chaupals, and public service camps. He emphasized that officers must remain available in their offices between 10 AM and 1 PM on working days to attend to citizens, especially those coming from remote areas.
Focus on Quality, Timeliness and Transparency in Development Works
The Chief Minister directed that all construction and development works be completed within stipulated timelines and according to quality standards. He warned that any delay or irregularity would invite strict disciplinary action against the concerned officials.
Review of Key Projects
Jamrani Dam Project: CM Dhami announced that the rehabilitation package for the dam has been approved and master planning is complete. The main construction is set to begin before the onset of the monsoon. The project holds significance for irrigation in both Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh.
Sukhatal Revival Project: Work worth ₹29.16 crore under the Namami Gange scheme is underway. The Chief Minister directed authorities to expedite the progress.
Kainchi Dham Development: Under the Manaskhand Mandir Mala Yojana, beautification and illumination works at Kainchi Dham are progressing at a cost of ₹28.15 crore. CM Dhami termed the project vital for promoting pilgrimage tourism.
Medical Colleges in Hills: The Chief Minister reviewed the master plan for Almora Medical College and informed that the budget for Pithoragarh Medical College has been doubled. He reaffirmed that strengthening healthcare in border districts remains a government priority.
Strict Action on Corruption
Reiterating his government’s “zero tolerance” stance on corruption, the Chief Minister ordered the immediate suspension of Kashipur Superintending Engineer Shivam Dwivedi following complaints related to the Jal Jeevan Mission in Udham Singh Nagar.
He directed all departments to adopt a solution-oriented working style, conduct regular public hearings, and ensure timely resolution of issues at the local level. He further announced that the vigilance mechanism is being overhauled to act more swiftly and effectively.
“Officials found guilty of corruption will face strict action, although the principle of fair hearing will also be upheld,” he added.
Concluding the meeting, Dhami stated, “Fulfilling the aspirations of the people is our topmost priority. Uttarakhand has emerged as a leader in various fields and now we must strive to attain excellence in all areas of governance and development.”
