Strengthening of Late Jagmohan Singh Negi Motor Road (State Highway No. 09) from Km 115 to Km 139 using DBM and BC.

Location

The project is located in the Jaiharikhal Development Block of District Pauri Garhwal, Uttarakhand. It falls under the Lansdowne Legislative Assembly constituency and the Pauri Garhwal Lok Sabha constituency. The specific stretch covers kilometers 115 to 139 of State Highway 09.

Background and Problem Statement

State Highway 09 is a vital arterial road for the Pauri Garhwal district. It originates from the Rishikesh Barrage, connects to NH-534 at Dugadda (Km 40), and traverses through Rathuwadhab, Nainidanda, and Dhumakot before joining NH-309 at Km 216. This highway serves as a crucial link connecting the Garhwal and Kumaon divisions of the state.

While the section from Km 140 to Km 189 has already been strengthened with Bituminous Macadam (BM) and Bituminous Concrete (BC), the stretch from Km 115 to Km 139 has deteriorated significantly. The surface condition is poor, causing considerable inconvenience to commuters and hindering smooth vehicular movement. The lack of a robust surface in this section disrupts the continuity of this important inter-regional corridor.

Project Concept and Need

The project is conceived to upgrade and strengthen the existing 25-kilometer stretch of the highway to ensure all-weather driveability and safety. The primary objective is to facilitate seamless connectivity between the Garhwal and Kumaon regions and to support the growing tourism sector in the area. Given the presence of the Kalagarh Tiger Reserve gates at Vatanvasa (located at Km 128 and Km 147), upgrading this road is essential to accommodate the influx of tourists and safari vehicles.

Key Components and Features

The project involves the comprehensive strengthening of the road surface using modern bituminous technologies. Key technical components include:

Pavement Strengthening: Application of Dense Bituminous Macadam (DBM) and Bituminous Concrete (BC) to provide a durable and smooth riding surface.
Base Repair: Laying of Water Bound Macadam (WBM Grade 3) where necessary to stabilize the base.
Drainage and Protection: Construction of surface drains and cross-drainage works to prevent waterlogging and road damage.
Road Safety Infrastructure: Installation of necessary road furniture, signage, and safety features to ensure commuter safety.
Utility Management: Provision for utility ducts to prevent future road cutting.
Shoulder Development: Construction of paved shoulders for added safety and road width utilization.

High-Impact Features: This project is strategically significant as it directly supports the eco-tourism circuit of the Kalagarh Tiger Reserve. By improving access to the Jungle Safari entry points, it enhances the tourism potential of the entire region.

Beneficiaries and Coverage

The direct beneficiaries of this project include the residents of 15 villages along the alignment, with a total registered population of 3,393 (as per the provided data). Key villages include Godi Chhoti, Sanjhasain, Chaukisera, Sendhikhal, Dauntiyal, Rathuwadhab, Kartiya, Jui, Kumaldi, Kandnala, Bansi, Gajwad, Phullarsain, Sila, and Bhatkhal. Additionally, tourists visiting the tiger reserve and commuters travelling between Garhwal and Kumaon will benefit significantly.

Expected Benefits and Outcomes

Improved Connectivity: Seamless travel experience between Garhwal and Kumaon mandals.
Tourism Boost: Enhanced accessibility to the Kalagarh Tiger Reserve is expected to increase tourist footfall.
Economic Growth: Improved road conditions will encourage the development of local resorts and homestays, generating employment for local residents.
Safety: The rectification of the damaged surface and installation of road safety furniture will significantly reduce accident risks.
Local Convenience: Easier and faster commute for the local population to markets and essential services.

Current Status of the Project

The project proposal has been prepared with a detailed estimate.

Estimated Cost: ₹2,985.15 Lakhs (approximately ₹29.85 Crore).
Land Status: The land is already under the possession of the Public Works Department (PWD), as it involves the strengthening of a pre-existing paved road.
Road Safety Audit: The road safety audit has been conducted and incorporated.

Implementation Plan / Next Steps

The project proposed for execution with an estimated completion timeline of 12 months following administrative and financial sanctions. The immediate next steps involve obtaining the necessary financial approvals and initiating the tendering process.

Conclusion

The strengthening of State Highway 09 from Km 115 to Km 139 is a high-priority infrastructure intervention. By closing the gap in road quality along this major state highway, the project will not only restore a critical transport lifeline but also unlock the economic potential of the region through enhanced tourism and local trade. It represents a vital investment in the sustainable development of Pauri Garhwal.

View Kml on Map