Dehradun. Under the chairmanship of Chief Secretary Anand Bardhan, an important review meeting was held to strengthen tourist facilities and urban arrangements in Nainital and Mussoorie. Detailed discussions were held on the current challenges of both major tourist towns and their solutions.
Focus on Traffic, Security, and Cleanliness
Comprehensive discussions were held on proper traffic management, lighting at necessary locations, beautification of main roads, painting, cleanliness, and tourist safety. The Chief Secretary obtained updated information from the Commissioners and Inspectors General of Police of Garhwal and Kumaon divisions, as well as the District Magistrates of Dehradun and Nainital.
Immediate Proposals and Time-Bound Implementation
The Chief Secretary directed that if required, immediate proposals be prepared for security, road improvement, parking, mobile network connectivity, lighting, and waste disposal. Emphasis was laid on completing ongoing works within the stipulated timeline while maintaining quality standards.
Special Preparations for Peak Season
Keeping the tourism season in mind, instructions were issued to ensure alternative parking arrangements, route diversions, traffic control, and security measures. Discussions were also held on granting local administrations the flexibility to take prompt decisions as needed. Special emphasis was placed on better coordination with all stakeholders, including local traders, hotel owners, and restaurant operators.
Network, Lighting, and Parking Arrangements
Instructions were given to identify areas along Nainital and surrounding routes where mobile networks are disrupted and to ensure improvements. Immediate steps were directed wherever lighting arrangements are inadequate. In the Mussoorie region, instructions were given to prepare an action plan in coordination with the Tourism Department for the effective use of parking at Kingrate.
City Beauty and Discipline
The Chief Secretary directed the proper management of tangled electric wires, removal of unsightly advertisements, and preservation of the city’s natural character. Cleaning of drainage systems, painting, railing repairs, and other beautification works were ordered to be completed within a set timeframe.
Strict Action Against Overcharging and Misconduct
Instructions were issued to keep strict vigilance against overcharging tourists or any form of misconduct. Male and female police personnel were directed to be deployed in plain clothes to ensure swift action, so that the state’s image remains unaffected.
Senior officials from various departments and administrative officers of the concerned districts attended the meeting virtually.
