Gairsain: Geographically located at the center of Uttarakhand, Gairsain has always held a special place in the state’s political and cultural journey.
During the Uttarakhand statehood movement, it became a symbol of hope and unity. Today, despite being declared the summer capital, the public feels promises remain unfulfilled.
From Sentiment to Infrastructure
The transformation of Gairsain began in 2013 when the Vijay Bahuguna-led Congress government laid the foundation stone for the Assembly in Bhararisain, following the insistence of senior leader Satpal Maharaj. Later, in 2015, Harish Rawat’s government began construction of the Assembly complex on 47 acres of land. This revived the sentiments of the statehood agitators and gave new energy to the demand for Gairsain’s recognition.
Infrastructure worth nearly Rs 8,000 crore has been developed
Over the years, infrastructure worth nearly Rs 8,000 crore has been developed. The Assembly building, residences for ministers, MLAs, officials, and staff, along with a helipad, double-lane roads, improved drinking water, electricity, and parking facilities, have all been completed. Work is still underway on a women’s staff hostel and media housing.
Trivendra Rawat’s Bold Decision
In 2020, BJP Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat surprised both his party and the opposition by declaring Bhararisain, Gairsain, as the summer capital of Uttarakhand. This announcement was seen as a bold step that opened new doors of possibilities for the region.
Lack of significant decisions has left residents disappointed
The current Pushkar Singh Dhami government has continued some essential work within the Assembly complex and nearby villages. However, the lack of significant decisions in the past five years has left residents disappointed. The demand for making Gairsain the permanent capital remains unanswered.
Public Disappointment
Nagar Panchayat President Mohan Bhandari points out that the absence of approval for constructing a secretariat in Bhararisain has led people to view Gairsain as a neglected summer capital. State activists Suresh Kumar Bisht and Harendra Kandari emphasize that residents of 10 out of 13 hill districts have been waiting for the Dhami government to declare Gairsain the permanent capital.
With the Assembly budget session scheduled in Bhararisain from March 9 to March 13, hopes have risen once again. People believe this election year could finally bring a decisive announcement.
Public continues to wait for a permanent capital declaration
Despite unparalleled infrastructure and political attention, Gairsain’s journey remains incomplete. The public continues to wait for a permanent capital declaration, which they believe will honor the sacrifices made during the Uttarakhand statehood movement.
For now, Gairsain stands as a symbol of possibilities—developed yet incomplete, modern yet waiting for its rightful place in Uttarakhand’s political map.