CM Pushkar Singh Dhami Launches Phase-I of ₹185.20 Crore Sharda Corridor Project

Tanakpur, Oct 2025 : Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Friday inaugurated the first phase of the Sharda Corridor Project, costing ₹185.20 crore, during a program at Sharda Ghat, Tanakpur.

CM Dhami described the Sharda Corridor as a confluence of faith, heritage, and sustainable development. He said the corridor aims to develop the valley from Banbasa to Mata Rankochi as a beautiful blend of religion, nature, and livelihood opportunities. The project will not only remain a spiritual center but also bring economic prosperity and new opportunities for the local population.

Key Features of Phase-I

The first phase of the Sharda Ghat redevelopment, estimated at ₹185.20 crore, will focus on:

• Safe bathing ghats and Aarti platforms
• Sanitation and rest facilities
• Beautifully designed ghats, pedestrian pathways, and access routes
• Modern lighting and beautification works

The Aarti platform will be constructed using international technology, including rainwater harvesting systems and floor cooling facilities. Flood-resistant structures will regulate river flow and ensure the safety of surrounding areas.

Environmental and Cultural Significance

CM Dhami emphasized that the corridor is a unique model for religious tourism, local economy, and employment generation, combining social, cultural, and environmental aspects. Some areas of the corridor fall under forest land, and land transfer procedures with the Forest Department are underway. Revenue lands such as Danda and Chuka will also be transferred soon to avoid delays.

The Poornagiri and Mata Rankochi regions within the corridor will serve as religious and cultural hubs, offering visitors experiences related to forests, wildlife, and nature education. The corridor will prioritize environmentally sensitive development, maintaining river sanctity, greenery, and ecological balance.

Project Components

• Kiroda Nala Ecological Corridor (₹109.57 crore): Enhancing biodiversity conservation and disaster resilience.
• City Drainage Plan – Phase 1 (₹62.11 crore): Strengthening urban water drainage to reduce floods and improve rainwater management.
• Alternative Route to Thak Village (₹5.34 crore): Providing a safe and accessible route for pilgrims along the historic Corbett final hunting path.
• Other associated works as part of phase I.

CM Dhami highlighted that the project will be implemented with public participation, transparency, and environmental balance, ensuring local citizen involvement in every decision. He added, “The Sharda Corridor is not just geographic development; it is the revival of our faith and spirit, a model where tradition and progress, faith and modernity, coexist for future generations.”

The program was attended by State Minister Shyam Narayan Pandey, Shankar Koranga, District Panchayat Chairman Anand Singh Adhikari, Block Head Anchala Bohra, BJP District President Govind Samant, DM Manish Kumar, SP Ajay Ganpati, CDO Dr. G.S. Khati, Additional DM Krishna Nath Goswami, along with other officials and a large number of local residents.

(Source: Department of Information and Public Relations)