Parvatamala Yojana

Published on 01 Mar 2025

The Parvatmala Yojana is a key initiative by the Indian government designed to enhance connectivity and infrastructure in the Himalayan region. This ambitious program focuses on improving transportation networks, boosting tourism, and fostering economic development in challenging terrains.

Objectives of the Parvatmala Yojana:

• Enhanced Connectivity: Improve transportation links in remote Himalayan areas to facilitate easier travel for residents and visitors. It is expected to reduce travel time and integrate these regions with the rest of the country. 

• Example: The construction of the Atal Tunnel has significantly reduced travel time between Manali and Leh, cutting down the journey by around 4-5 hours.

• Tourism Promotion: Boost tourism by developing infrastructure, attracting more visitors to the Himalayan region. Improved infrastructure aims to drive economic growth, create jobs, and support local businesses. 

• Example: Better access to tourist sites in Uttarakhand is expected to increase tourist arrivals by 20% annually.

• Safety and Efficiency: Enhance road safety and reduce risks associated with harsh weather and challenging terrains. Upgraded infrastructure is projected to lower accident rates and improve travel safety. 

• Example: The recent road upgrades in Himachal Pradesh have led to a 15% reduction in road accidents in the region.

Key Components:

• Road and Tunnel Construction:

• Strategic Roads: Development of key roads and tunnels, such as the Zojila Pass Tunnel, aims to provide year-round access to remote areas. The Zojila Tunnel, expected to be completed by 2026, will reduce travel time between Srinagar and Leh by around 4 hours.

• Road Upgrades: Widening and strengthening existing roads, such as the Manali-Leh Highway, which is undergoing significant upgrades to handle increased traffic and ensure safety.

• Bridges and Infrastructure:

• Bridges: Construction of new bridges, including the strategic bridge over the Chenab River, is crucial for connecting remote areas. The Chenab Bridge, slated to be the highest in the world upon completion, will enhance connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir.

• Infrastructure Enhancements: Improving road conditions with safety features like guardrails and advanced signalling systems. 

•  Example: The installation of smart traffic management systems on key highways aims to reduce traffic congestion and improve safety.

• Tourism Development:

• Tourist Facilities: Establishing facilities like rest stops, viewing points, and information centres along major routes. New tourist centres along the Char Dham Yatra routes are being developed to enhance visitor experience.

• Eco-Tourism Initiatives: Promoting sustainable tourism practices, such as the Green Trekking Initiative in Uttarakhand, which focuses on preserving natural landscapes while encouraging tourism.

• Economic Growth and Local Development:

• Local Infrastructure: Investing in community infrastructure such as markets and healthcare facilities. The development of local markets in Leh and Ladhakh aims to boost local economies and provide essential services.

• Job Creation: Generating employment opportunities in construction, maintenance, and tourism. The ongoing road projects are expected to create over 10,000 jobs in the Himalayan region.

• Technological Integration:

• Smart Infrastructure: Implementing technology solutions like real-time traffic management systems. The deployment of GPS-based monitoring systems on key highways aims to improve traffic flow and safety.

• Maintenance Innovations: Using advanced materials and techniques to enhance infrastructure durability. 

• Example: The use of polymer-modified bitumen in road construction to improve road longevity and performance.

Budget and Current Status:

• Budget: The Parvatmala Yojana is allocated substantial funding, with the government investing approximately INR 60,000 crores (around USD 8 billion) for infrastructure development.

• Progress: Several projects are underway, including the completion of the Atal Tunnel and ongoing construction of new roads and bridges. The Zojila Tunnel and Chenab Bridge are among the major projects planned for completion in the coming years.

Challenges faced by Parvatamala Yojana:

• Geographical Difficulties: The rugged and mountainous terrain presents significant construction and maintenance challenges.

• Example: Landslides and avalanches in Himachal Pradesh have caused project delays and necessitated specialized construction techniques, such as slope stabilization and avalanche protection measures.

• Weather Conditions: Severe weather, including heavy snowfall and extreme temperatures, can delay construction and affect infrastructure durability.

• Example: Heavy snowfall in the Himalayas has temporarily blocked roads and affected supply chains, impacting construction schedules and material availability.

• Environmental Impact: Balancing infrastructure development with environmental preservation is crucial to avoid ecological damage.

Example: Construction activities near protected wildlife habitats in Uttarakhand require careful planning and mitigation measures to protect local flora and fauna.

Tags:
Economy

Keywords:
Transport Himalayan region Parvatamala Logistics Road

Syllabus:
General Studies Paper 3

Topics:
Infrastructure Development