The long-pending Kathgodam to Danijala-Amritpur bypass road project has received approval from the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, paving the way for construction to begin soon.
The new route is expected to bring major relief from persistent traffic congestion on the Kathgodam-Ranibagh stretch, particularly near Gulab Ghati, benefitting local residents and tourists travelling towards the Kumaon region.
MLA Ram Singh Kaira said that traffic jams on the existing route have been a longstanding issue for people in Bhimtal and nearby areas, as well as visitors heading to hill destinations.
He added that he had earlier requested Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami to sanction the bypass, following which the state government submitted a proposal to the Centre. With approval now secured, the Public Works Department will soon prepare a detailed project report (DPR) and begin construction.
Kaira expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Dhami and MP Ajay Bhatt, noting that the CM had announced the bypass project in 2019. Once completed, the road will enhance connectivity to key hill districts including Almora, Bageshwar, Pithoragarh, and Champawat, making travel to the mountains smoother and faster.
The project is also expected to support the Jamrani Dam development by improving regional access and boosting tourism potential. In addition, the new road will help farmers from the hills transport fruits, vegetables, and other produce to the Haldwani mandi more easily, allowing them to secure better market prices in a timely manner.