Uttarakhand CM Dhami Inaugurates Modernised Clock Tower, Highlights Tourism And Civic Pride Initiatives

The historic Clock Tower in Dehradun has been given a modern facelift, complete with an automated lighting system, which was inaugurated by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Saturday. The upgraded landmark aims to boost tourism, enhance the city’s beauty, and instil civic pride among residents.

Speaking at the event at Clock Tower Chowk, CM Dhami said, “Dehradun’s Clock Tower is an identity of the city. Its new form will not only attract tourists but also encourage citizens to take responsibility for cleanliness and conservation.” The project, executed at a cost of around Rs 1.5 crore, gives the heritage site a vibrant appearance, especially at night, adding to the city’s nightlife.

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Alongside the Clock Tower inauguration, the Chief Minister also launched four modern Hilans-cum-kitchen outlets run by women’s self-help groups. He highlighted that the initiative provides self-employment opportunities and promotes Uttarakhand’s traditional and organic products. Similar Hilans outlets are already operational at the Dehradun Collectorate, Coronation Hospital, Gucchupani, and ISBT, creating new markets for local produce.

CM Dhami also briefed about a special campaign to eradicate child begging in Dehradun. An inter-departmental team, including the Home Guard, Child Helpline, Education, Labour, and Police Departments, along with NGOs, has rescued children in phases. In the first phase, 51 children were enrolled in schools, while in the second phase, 31 children were admitted to Government Primary School, Parade Ground, and Sadhuram Inter College, where a Rs 1.5 crore intensive care centre is under construction.

However, the event sparked criticism as local councillor Santokh Nagpal was not invited, despite the programme taking place within his ward. Councillors have expressed displeasure over being continuously neglected in government events.

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The programme also caused traffic congestion around the Clock Tower, affecting major roads including Rajpur Road, Chakrata Road, and Gandhi Road. Diversions implemented during the Chief Minister’s visit further intensified traffic jams in the surrounding areas.

The event was attended by Cabinet Ministers Ganesh Joshi and Subodh Uniyal, MLA Khajan Das, and other officials.