Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has taken cognizance of the concerns being raised over the Dehradun-Rishikesh road project. He assured that this is an NHAI project and wildlife has been taken care of, but till a consensus is reached, cutting of trees has been banned and fresh talks will be held.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Saturday said that he has taken seriously the concerns and suggestions raised by the common people, environmentalists and local residents regarding the Dehradun-Rishikesh four/six-lane road project.
Following rules and taking care of wildlife in the project
The Chief Minister said that this project is an important initiative of the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI). Its work is being done as per the instructions of the High Court and all necessary legal and environment related approvals.
He also said that in this project, full care has been taken to protect wildlife. Under this, about 3.5 km long underpass will be built for elephants and a special type of culvert will be built for the movement of small animals. According to the statement issued, the purpose of these measures is to reduce conflict between humans and wildlife. Besides, this also aims to prevent the frequent deaths of animals in road accidents on this route.
Ban on cutting of trees, orders for fresh talks
CM Dhami made it clear that development is necessary, but no decision will be taken at the cost of public sentiments, protection of the environment or the interests of local communities. He has directed the officials to hold fresh talks with local residents, public representatives and experts on the subject.
The Chief Minister said that the state government will fully respect the instructions of the High Court and will move forward accordingly. He also announced that until a satisfactory agreement is reached between all the parties and an atmosphere of trust is established, there will be a ban on felling of trees under the project. Dhami reiterated that protection of the natural environment of Uttarakhand, sentiments of the people and development of the state, all are equally important for the government. He said that all future decisions will be taken only after dialogue, consensus and keeping in mind the larger public interest.
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