PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/ Dehradun
In a major initiative aimed at easing ever increasing traffic load on Rishikesh town, the Ministry of Road, Transport and Highways has given its approval to the four lane Rishikesh bypass project.
The ministry has issued technical, administrative and financial approvals amounting to Rs 1,105.79 crore for the ambitious project. The 12.670 kilometre bypass will be constructed from the Teenpani flyover to the Kharasot bridge on National Highway seven. The bypass will pass through Bhattowala and Dhalwala villages and will be implemented in engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) mode.
According to the ministry, the initial estimate for the project was Rs 1,151.18 crore, which was revised to Rs 1,139.40 crore and finally approved for Rs 1,105.79 crore. The project will be completed within a timeframe of three years. The tenders will be invited through an e-tendering process and all work will be carried out in accordance with established guidelines.
The project will be funded under the Government of India’s budget provisions for the financial year 2025-26. The regional officer NHA, Dehradun has been designated as the drawing and disbursing officer (DDO) for the project.
Expressing his happiness at the approval, chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said that the State government is constantly striving to strengthen road connectivity in Uttarakhand. He said that after the completion of the project, the traffic pressure in the area will be reduced. He said that the project will provide convenience to local citizens and the pilgrims visiting the State for the Char Dham Yatra. The tourism activities will also get a boost.
“This project is an important step towards the overall development and improved connectivity in Uttarakhand. Our government is committed to connecting remote and urban areas of the state with a strong road network,’’ he said.
