Uttarakhand government approved allocations totalling Rs 5 billion (bn) for infrastructure, the Ganga Corridor and small hydropower projects, and the Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami authorised measures to accelerate development and investment across the state. The funds are intended to improve basic facilities, promote enterprises, strengthen administrative systems and boost tourism and energy sectors. The Chief Minister directed officials to implement schemes in a time bound manner with high quality to ensure maximum public benefit.

Under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment scheme the government granted ex post facto approval for Rs 1.5 billion and Rs 3.5 billion for development of infrastructure across departments and for mega projects respectively, officials said. Administrative and financial approval was also given for Rs 1.0678 billion as recommended by the Expenditure Finance Committee for the redevelopment of Triveni Ghat under the Rishikesh Ganga Corridor Project. Approval was granted for release of Rs 113.7 million (mn) for the first phase of the project in the financial year 2025-26, which will support riverfront beautification and improved facilities for pilgrims.

The redevelopment work is expected to enhance the Ganga riverfront in Rishikesh, increase tourism footfall and improve amenities for visitors and pilgrims, the release added. Officials assessed that the approvals will accelerate infrastructure development and strengthen administrative transparency, facilitating investment and energy projects in hill districts. Emphasis was placed on time bound completion and quality oversight to ensure projects deliver intended outcomes for local communities.

The state has also prioritised sports infrastructure, noting completion of 102 mini stadiums, 157 playgrounds and seven multipurpose halls to nurture youth talent and promote sporting culture in villages. Authorities indicated this expansion aims to provide better platforms for athletes and support participation at national and international levels. Implementation agencies were instructed to monitor progress closely and coordinate with stakeholders to translate investments into measurable development gains.