Did the Centre Secure a $126.4 Million ADB Loan to Enhance Sustainable Tourism in Uttarakhand?
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Synopsis
The Asian Development Bank has partnered with the Indian government to provide a substantial loan aimed at transforming Uttarakhand’s tourism landscape. With a focus on sustainability and climate resilience, this initiative promises to uplift the local economy and enhance visitor experiences at the beautiful Tehri Lake.
Key Takeaways
- ADB loan of $126.42 million enhances tourism.
- Focus on sustainable and climate-resilient practices.
- Project to benefit 87,000 residents and 2.7 million visitors.
- Key initiatives include institutional strengthening and disaster preparedness.
- Emphasis on inclusive tourism led by women and youth.
New Delhi, Sep 11 (NationPress) The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has entered into a loan agreement with the government of India for $126.42 million aimed at fostering rural development through sustainable and climate-resilient tourism in the Tehri Lake area of Uttarakhand, as stated by the Finance Ministry on Thursday.
This ADB loan aligns with Uttarakhand's strategy to elevate the state as a diverse, year-round tourism hotspot, with the Tehri Lake being designated as a key development zone, according to the official announcement.
The initiative focuses on the Tehri Garhwal district, recognized as one of the most climate-sensitive and economically challenged areas of Uttarakhand. The project aims to enhance the lives of over 87,000 residents and cater to 2.7 million annual visitors by improving tourism management, upgrading facilities, ensuring better sanitation and waste handling, and enhancing disaster readiness.
The agreement for the 'Sustainable, Inclusive, and Climate-Resilient Tourism Development' project was signed by Juhi Mukherjee, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Finance, and Kai Wei Yeo, Officer-in-Charge, India Resident Mission, ADB.
“This loan reinforces the government of Uttarakhand’s vision to establish the state as a diverse and all-seasons tourism destination, with Tehri Lake as a focal point for development,” stated Mukherjee after the agreement was finalized.
“This project exemplifies a template for sustainable tourism centered around a hydropower lake, utilizing a multisector strategy to create employment, diversify incomes, and enhance climate resilience,” Yeo remarked.
Key initiatives include strengthening institutions, developing climate-resilient infrastructure, implementing nature-based solutions for landslide and flood mitigation, and providing inclusive tourism services spearheaded by women, youth, and the private sector.
Highlighting features are a livelihood matching grant program to empower tourism initiatives led by women, youth, and micro, small, and medium enterprises, universal access designs catering to individuals with disabilities, and a women-led disaster risk management project in selected villages.
This project builds on previous ADB initiatives aimed at enhancing tourism in Uttarakhand and across various regions in India. The area focuses on a significant operational hydropower lake, contributing to the growing global expertise in rural tourism development in conjunction with land and water zoning for hydropower generation.
Point of View
We recognize the importance of sustainable tourism in driving economic growth while preserving natural resources. The collaboration between the ADB and the Indian government is a step in the right direction for Uttarakhand, showcasing a commitment to inclusive development that aligns with global sustainability goals.
NationPress
11/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the ADB loan to Uttarakhand?
The ADB loan, amounting to $126.42 million, aims to promote sustainable and climate-resilient tourism in the Tehri Lake region, facilitating rural development and improving infrastructure.
How many residents will benefit from the project?
The project is expected to benefit over 87,000 residents in the Tehri Garhwal district.
What are some key features of the tourism development project?
Key features include climate-resilient infrastructure, inclusive tourism services, a livelihood matching grant program for women and youth, and disaster risk management initiatives.
Who signed the loan agreement?
The loan agreement was signed by Juhi Mukherjee from the Ministry of Finance and Kai Wei Yeo from the ADB.
What is the expected impact on tourism?
The project aims to improve tourism planning and infrastructure, expecting to attract approximately 2.7 million annual visitors to the region.
