Dehradun. The Authorized Finance Committee (AFC) met in the Secretariat auditorium under the chairmanship of Chief Secretary Anand Bardhan and approved various important development projects. The meeting discussed in detail projects related to infrastructure, drinking water, and transportation.
New Cantt Road to be upgraded to three lanes using UIDF funds
A project worth ₹1257.96 lakh was approved to upgrade the New Cantt Road (from Dilaram Bazaar to Vijay Colony Bridge) from two lanes to three lanes under UIDF funds.
This includes relocating power lines to utility ducts and shifting water supply lines. This will ease traffic flow and reduce congestion in the area.
Strengthening of Drinking Water Scheme in Pithoragarh
A ₹1338.53 lakh scheme was approved for the replacement and realignment of dilapidated pipelines and rising mains under the Ghat Pumping Drinking Water Scheme in Pithoragarh district. This will improve drinking water supply in the area.
Two-Lane Steel Box Bridge to be Built on Mussoorie State Highway
A 60-meter span, two-lane, Class-A loading steel box bridge will be constructed at a cost of ₹1200.17 lakh to replace the damaged single-lane bridge at Km 18 of Mussoorie State Highway No. 1, Sahaspur (Dehradun district). This will facilitate traffic flow and enhance safety.
Strict Stake on Ramnagar Bus Terminal Project
The Chief Secretary expressed displeasure over the increased expenditure on foundation work and site development in the revised cost of the Ramnagar Bus Terminal project.
He directed the HOD, PWD, and MD, Drinking Water Corporation to constitute a committee to examine the feasibility of the initial and expanded costs, site selection, foundation costs, and total expenditure and submit a report.
Emphasis on Saving Public Funds
The Chief Secretary clarified that judicious use of public funds is paramount. Instead of relying solely on consultant proposals, departments should conduct their own detailed investigations. Instructions were given not to submit any proposal to the High Power Committee without adequate scrutiny.
He stated bluntly, “Work should be public-centric.”
Instructions for Timely and Transparent Implementation
Instructions were given to implement all projects approved at the meeting promptly, transparently, and in a timely manner. Secretary Pankaj Pandey, S.A. Adannaki, Brijesh Sant, and other relevant officials were present at the meeting.
