PNS | HARIDWAR
Crores of pilgrims and tourists visit Haridwar throughout the year. In order to ensure a positive and convenient experience for both the visitors and the locals, the Haridwar-Roorkee Development Authority (HRDA) under its vice chairman Anhsul Singh, has undertaken various steps to boost development and beautification in the city as one would expect in such a prominent pilgrimage centre. Further, the HRDA has also taken steps to boost the sporting culture in the city with the development of various sports facilities.
It is estimated that about six crore pilgrims visit Haridwar in a year. The development work here was limited mostly to construction of roads and bridges in the past along with a few minor beautification works. However, major transformation has taken place in Haridwar during the past one and a half years. Singh is credited with focused efforts to bring about this transformation. The various beautification works done by the HRDA during the past 20 months under Singh include construction of about 50 parks and beautification works.
Further, more than 400 pieces of open air gymnasium equipment have also been installed for the public to use for better health. More than 250 swings have also been installed for children in various locations. Focusing on enhancing greenery, the HRDA has placed more than 6,000 potted plants in various locations across the city. Further, the spaces under highway flyovers have seen the installation of railings to develop parks and small sports points for the public.
The HRDA’s horticulture officer Pravin Mathur said that the VC stresses on works which are executed in a modern manner to provide maximum facilities at low cost. The HRDA is developing 16 parks on his directions. This work will include plantation, building walkways, installation of gym equipment, play area, solar lights, RCC benches, painting and other works, Mathur said.
Apart from the development and beautification works, the HRDA is also focusing on boosting the sports culture in this prominent pilgrimage centre. It has built a world class stadium for day and night matches while various activities are being undertaken by players at the sports complex. The sports complex also includes a badminton court and a lawn tennis court. It is expected that the development of such sports facilities will nurture local sporting talent in Haridwar.
