In an effort to promote Uttarakhand tourism, a cruise ship service will soon be launched on Lake Tehri. This initiative is expected to benefit local communities and boost village tourism in the region. Vijay Bisht, the Manager of the cruise ship, described the move as unprecedented and a significant step to boost tourism. He also emphasized that the Tehri Dam, built on Lake Tehri, is the highest dam in the world, offering endless possibilities for tourism. He further mentioned that the cruise service will provide hope to locals who were discouraged after the construction of the Tehri Dam and will contribute to promoting village tourism. We want more such activities here, Bisht added. Meanwhile, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announced that the state government has decided to offer a 25% discount on Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN) hotels to encourage tourism during the winter season. He also directed officials to strengthen security arrangements for tourists during the winter months and ensure the effectiveness of emergency management systems during adverse weather. Additionally, the Chief Minister instructed that necessary road repairs be undertaken and that infrastructure be developed to enhance the daily capacity for Chardham pilgrims. In a recent meeting at the secretariat, CM Dhami also directed officials to create parking lots along travel routes and improve infrastructure to manage the increased flow of visitors to Chardham. He assured that top priority would be given to providing health services, ensuring cleanliness, and offering safe accommodation for pilgrims. Preparations for the 2025 Chardham Yatra have already begun to ensure a smooth experience for the devotees. The Uttarakhand government is making significant efforts to promote both winter tourism and pilgrimage destinations in the state. According to a release from the Uttarakhand Chief Minister's Office (CMO), Uttarakhand Power Corporation Limited (UPCL) has taken extensive measures to ensure a smooth power supply at key tourist and pilgrimage sites. Popular destinations like Mussoorie, Auli, Joshimath, Dhanaulti, Haridwar, and Rishikesh attract a large number of tourists and pilgrims during the winter season. UPCL has issued guidelines to regional units to ensure the availability of essential resources in these areas, the release noted.