Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami Inspects Lohiyahead Water Bypass, Announces Plans to Develop it as a Major Tourist Destination
Lohiyahead Water Bypass to be Developed into a Key Tourism Hub: Chief Minister
Sharda Corridor and Sharda Riverfront Projects to Give New Momentum to Tourism in Khatima
Tourism Development Will Create Employment Opportunities for Local Youth and Boost the Regional Economy: Chief Minister
Khatima, Udham Singh Nagar |
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Sunday conducted a site inspection of the Lohiyahead Water Bypass in Khatima, Udham Singh Nagar district, to review its tourism potential and assess plans for its future development. During the visit, the Chief Minister observed the area’s scenic beauty, riverfront landscape, and natural resources, while receiving a detailed briefing from officials regarding proposed tourism development initiatives.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said that Lohiyahead Water Bypass possesses immense potential to emerge as a major tourist destination due to its natural beauty and unique geographical features. He emphasized that the State Government is committed to identifying and developing such destinations in a planned and sustainable manner to strengthen Uttarakhand’s tourism sector.
“The objective is to transform naturally rich locations into world-class tourism destinations while preserving their ecological balance,” the Chief Minister said. He added that tourism continues to be one of the strongest pillars of Uttarakhand’s economy, and the government is consistently implementing various initiatives to promote sustainable tourism across the state.
Shri Dhami further stated that the Sharda Corridor and Sharda Riverfront Project are among the government’s ambitious initiatives aimed at the comprehensive development of the Khatima region. These projects are expected to significantly improve tourism infrastructure, attract more visitors, and accelerate economic activities in the area.
He noted that increased tourist footfall would directly benefit local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, transport services, handicrafts, and other tourism-related enterprises. The projects will also encourage investment and strengthen the local economy.
Highlighting the socio-economic impact of tourism, the Chief Minister said that developing Lohiyahead Water Bypass as a tourist destination would generate new employment and self-employment opportunities for local youth. Women Self-Help Groups (SHGs), local entrepreneurs, artisans, and small businesses would also benefit through enhanced market access and increased visitor engagement.
“The government’s vision is to ensure that every region of Uttarakhand benefits from its tourism potential and that the economic gains reach local communities directly,” he said.
During the inspection, the Chief Minister directed the District Magistrate and officials of the concerned departments to prepare a comprehensive development plan for the Lohiyahead Water Bypass and expedite all necessary procedures. He instructed that all development works should maintain high standards of quality while giving equal importance to environmental conservation, public convenience, and the needs of local residents.
He also stressed the development of essential tourism infrastructure, including beautification, parking facilities, pedestrian amenities, sanitation, lighting, safety measures, and visitor-friendly services to enhance the overall tourist experience.
Expressing confidence in the project’s future, the Chief Minister said that once developed, Lohiyahead Water Bypass would emerge as one of Uttarakhand’s prominent tourism destinations, contributing significantly to the economic growth of Khatima and the entire Udham Singh Nagar district.
The inspection was attended by the District Magistrate, senior district officials, and officers from the concerned departments.
