Following the clear directives of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami to develop Devbhoomi Uttarakhand in a planned, safe, and future-oriented manner, the Mussoorie Dehradun Development Authority (MDDA) now appears to be moving forward in mission mode to realize this vision. In this context, the review meeting held on February 7, 2026, chaired by MDDA Vice Chairman Banshidhar Tiwari, proved to be more than just an administrative formality; it was a meeting that laid down the roadmap for the future of the Dehradun-Mussoorie urban area. This meeting reflected a mindset where development is not limited to construction alone, but is intertwined with a balance of law, transparency, safety, environment, and public interest.
*From Planning to Performance*
The meeting began with a sector-wise review of residential and commercial building plans submitted for approval in the last three months. Vice Chairman Banshidhar Tiwari clearly stated that simplifying, making transparent, and ensuring timely approval of building plans is the authority’s top priority.
He instructed the officials to ensure that citizens do not have to make unnecessary visits and that work is completed quickly in accordance with the rules.
*No Leniency for Rule Breakers*
A strict stance was adopted in the meeting regarding cases where the prescribed fees were not deposited even after the regularization or approval of building plans. The Vice Chairman instructed the formation of a committee to address this issue. Action will be taken against the cases identified by the committee in accordance with the rules, sending a clear message that the rules are the same for everyone.
*Entire System Deployed Against Illegal Construction*
To curb the haphazard development of the city, the MDDA will now conduct sector-wise joint campaigns. On the designated day, all officers and employees will reach the site to conduct inspections, and immediate action will be taken against illegal constructions. The Vice Chairman unequivocally stated, “A zero-tolerance policy will now be implemented against illegal constructions.” To create public awareness, information about the actions taken by the MDDA against illegal plotting will now be uploaded on the authority’s website. This initiative will not only increase transparency but also help people avoid falling into the trap of fraudulent colonies. *The city will get new greenery*
Instructions have been given to prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for developing the trenching ground located on Sahastradhara Road into a modern park. An MDDA team will visit Delhi to study similar parks developed by the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) for this project. This project is considered a major step towards providing a green break in urban life.
*Improved lighting and safety on Mussoorie Road*
Following the instructions of the Chief Secretary, directions have been given to complete the lighting work on the valley side of Mussoorie Road expeditiously. This plan will prove crucial in curbing accidents that occur at night. Instructions have also been given to construct a park and install a statue of Lord Shiva on the vacant land near the temple at Dharampur Chowk. This site will become a new center for religious, cultural, and social activities.
*Dust control and emphasis on greenery*
Instructions have been given to take concrete steps towards pollution control by constructing footpaths and undertaking extensive tree plantation on vacant spaces along the roads.
*Foundation for a residential future*
Instructions have been given to implement the plotted residential scheme on the land acquired under land pooling by May 2026. The proposed residential scheme in the Dhauran area will be developed keeping all sections of society in mind and using eco-friendly construction materials.
*Statement by Vice Chairman Banshidhar Tiwari*
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has given clear instructions that urban development should be planned, safe, and transparent. MDDA is working with this vision. Strict action against illegal construction and illegal plotting is our priority. At the same time, we are promoting development projects that provide the city with better infrastructure, greenery, and safer traffic. Transparency is being ensured at every level, from map approvals to residential schemes. Our objective is not just construction, but balanced urban development keeping future needs in mind.
*Statement by Secretary Mohan Singh Barnia*
Under the leadership of the MDDA Vice Chairman, the authority is working with complete commitment. All departments have been instructed to complete tasks within deadlines, maintain quality standards, and strictly adhere to regulations. Efforts are being made to control illegal activities and prioritize development projects that are in the public interest
