22-06-2025
Doon activists oppose Rispana-Bindal road project
Dehradun: Various social, women's and environmental organisations in Dehradun announced a public campaign on Sunday to demand pro-people development projects for the city while opposing the proposed Rispana-Bindal elevated road corridor.
According to activists, such projects disproportionately affect marginalised communities and harm the environment.
"Safeguarding the environment, providing relief from traffic congestion and protecting the interests of daily wage earners must be the priorities. We will intensify public agitation in the coming weeks. This project threatens both the environment and the community, and it will not alleviate traffic congestion as claimed," said Dr Ravi Chopra from the Uttarakhand Insaniyat Manch.
Other activists questioned the economic rationale behind the initiative. "If the govt can spend Rs 6,200 crore in Dehradun, the public can certainly help define a target for people-centric development that truly addresses the city's core issues," said social activist Anoop Nautiyal.
The proposed 26 km project, activists said, may benefit private companies and govt officers, but it threatens the settlements and housing rights of labourers. To raise awareness, activists announced plans for signature campaigns, public meetings and citywide protests in the coming weeks.
