Dehradun, Uttarakhand , October 26: As Diwali celebrations draw closer, along with Uttarakhand’s Foundation Day on November 9, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami is leading a thorough statewide initiative to ensure robust preparations that cover cleanliness, security, food safety, and traffic management. In a detailed meeting with state officials held at the state secretariat on Friday, CM Dhami issued precise guidelines to address the challenges of the upcoming festivities, aiming to enhance both safety and convenience for residents and visitors alike.
This time of year sees Uttarakhand bustling with visitors, and Diwali’s arrival typically brings high volumes of vehicular traffic, which can cause congestion and delays. With this in mind, CM Dhami placed special emphasis on developing effective traffic management systems. He instructed the relevant departments to prepare traffic plans that minimize disruptions and ensure smooth transit, especially in crowded areas and major thoroughfares. The Chief Minister stressed that managing traffic efficiently is vital not only for convenience but also for safety during the festival season. This year’s approach includes deploying additional personnel to critical areas, enhancing traffic monitoring systems, and setting up strategic diversions where needed. To ensure a rapid response to potential emergencies, Dhami also directed the fire department to deploy adequate fire engines in designated zones to mitigate risks related to fireworks, a common sight during Diwali.
The health sector is similarly a key focus in these preparations. CM Dhami highlighted on his social media platform that the state’s health services, including emergency units and burn treatment centers, will be fully operational 24/7 throughout the Diwali festivities. This measure is part of a larger commitment to ensuring residents and visitors have access to immediate medical support if needed. He encouraged health officials to be on alert and ready for any contingencies. With Uttarakhand hosting thousands of tourists each year who often visit the state during this festive period, the government aims to ensure both residents and visitors can enjoy the celebrations safely, with access to essential services whenever necessary.
The safety of food consumed during the festive season is another priority addressed in CM Dhami’s meeting. Food safety teams are set to carry out regular checks on vendors and suppliers to prevent cases of food adulteration. The Chief Minister directed that comprehensive sampling of food items should be conducted, with a strong emphasis on quality control across the state. Any cases of adulteration, hygiene violations, or substandard food products will face strict action from authorities. This directive is part of a broader statewide initiative to safeguard the health of people and ensure the purity of the food served in public spaces and sold by vendors during Diwali. Food safety measures are a proactive approach to maintaining public trust and health, especially during high-footfall periods.
Additionally, with the state’s Foundation Day celebrations coming up on November 9, CM Dhami’s plan extends beyond Diwali to mark this significant event with cleanliness and unity campaigns. Uttarakhand, set to complete 24 years as an Indian state, is preparing a week-long program of activities beginning on November 6 and culminating on November 12. This year, as the state enters its 25th year, CM Dhami has called upon all district authorities to lead cleanliness initiatives across urban and rural areas alike. These efforts are intended to involve the community, making cleanliness a shared responsibility and a public-driven program. The CM highlighted the importance of creating a sense of civic pride through these programs, encouraging people to take active roles in their surroundings. Residents are expected to see cleanliness drives, waste management initiatives, and awareness programs that align with the state’s long-term environmental goals.
On the security front, CM Dhami instructed officials to tighten security protocols, particularly at Uttarakhand’s inter-state and international borders. This directive reflects the government’s commitment to maintaining order and safety as increased movement is expected due to Diwali festivities and Foundation Day celebrations. The CM pointed out the necessity of securing Uttarakhand’s borders, especially with neighboring Tibet to the north and Nepal to the east, as they can see heightened activity during this season. This initiative will involve enhanced surveillance, coordination with neighboring states, and strategic deployment of security personnel. The increased security presence aims to create a safe and welcoming atmosphere for all, ensuring that people can celebrate freely without concerns over safety.
CM Dhami also took the opportunity to emphasize that as Uttarakhand approaches its 25th anniversary, there is a pressing need for concerted efforts to further the state’s development. Reflecting on Uttarakhand’s journey since its formation on November 9, 2000, when it became India’s 27th state, the CM spoke about the government’s vision of “Team Uttarakhand.” This concept encourages all government departments, officials, and citizens to work in unity towards common development goals. The CM underscored that with coordinated efforts, Uttarakhand can progress towards becoming one of the leading states in India. His message to the officials was one of collaboration and dedication, reinforcing the notion that Uttarakhand’s progress rests in the hands of its people and their collective spirit.
Uttarakhand, often referred to as Devbhumi or “Land of the Gods,” holds a significant place in the cultural and spiritual landscape of India, drawing pilgrims and tourists alike. Its geographical position at the foothills of the Himalayas and its strategic border locations make it a crucial region in northern India. As the state prepares to celebrate Diwali and Foundation Day, CM Dhami’s comprehensive approach underscores his administration’s commitment to preserving the cultural heritage, public welfare, and security of the state.
The CM’s directives for the upcoming events reflect Uttarakhand’s proactive stance in creating a safer, cleaner, and more organized environment for its people. By prioritizing traffic management, healthcare readiness, food safety, and security, CM Dhami’s leadership aims to foster a festive season that is not only enjoyable but also safe and convenient. These initiatives serve as a reminder of Uttarakhand’s broader goals of sustainable development, community involvement, and progressive governance as it steps into its silver jubilee year.
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