Uttarakhand has become a popular tourist destination. One of the significant milestones in the history of Uttarakhand was the establishment of Gairsain as its summer capital. We will delve into the fascinating journey of when Gairsain became the capital of Uttarakhand and explore the reasons behind this decision.
The Quest for an Ideal Capital
Ever since Uttarakhand was carved out of the state of Uttar Pradesh in the year 2000, there has been a quest to select a suitable capital that would cater to the diverse needs of the state. Various cities were considered as potential candidates, including Dehradun, Nainital, and Gairsain to opt as a Uttarakhand Capital. Each city had its own unique advantages and challenges, making the decision a complex and crucial one.
Presentely Dehradun, as the capital of Uttarakhand, was already a bustling city with well-developed infrastructure and facilities. However, its rapid urbanization and increasing population posed challenges in terms of managing the administrative activities efficiently. Nainital, on the other hand, had a scenic location and a well-established tourism industry, but its accessibility and limited space made it unsuitable for accommodating the administrative needs of the entire state.
Amidst these considerations, Gairsain emerged as a strong contender due to its historical and cultural significance, geographical advantage, accessibility, and potential for infrastructure development. The selection of Gairsain as the summer capital was a strategic decision that aimed to address the needs of the state while preserving its cultural heritage and promoting inclusive growth.
Gairsain: A Historical and Cultural Gem
Gairsain, nestled amidst the splendid Himalayan ranges, is a small town located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. It holds immense historical and significance for the people of Uttarakhand. Gairsain is often demanded as the capital since statehood movement and the epicenter of the Uttarakhand Andolan, which aimed at the creation of a separate state. This historical backdrop played a crucial role in the selection of Gairsain as the summer capital in 2020 by BJP led Government.
The information shared by the state government in its gazeatt notification on 8th June 2020 stating “The Governor is hereby pleased to give her assent for declaration of Bhararisen (Gairsain) in district Chamoli as the summer capital of Uttarakhand state.”
The notification has come after three months of chief minister Trivendra Singh Rawat in a surprise move in his budgetary speech during budget session on March 4 2020 in Gairsain, declared the hill town located about 260 kms away from Dehradun as the summer capital of Uttarakhand
The town’s association with the statehood movement and its epicenter of the Uttarakhand movement for hill state and capital at hill town have instilled a sense of pride and identity among the people of Uttarakhand.
By designating Gairsain as the capital, the government has acknowledged and celebrated the town’s historical and cultural significance. This decision not only serves as a reminder of the state’s struggle for autonomy but also attracts tourists who are keen to explore the cultural heritage of Uttarakhand.
Geographical Advantage and Accessibility
One of the key factors that contributed to Gairsain being chosen as the capital of Uttarakhand in summer is its geographical advantage. Situated at an elevation of approximately 1,800 meters above sea level, Gairsain enjoys a pleasant climate during the scorching summer months. The town is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a tranquil environment that is perfect for administrative activities.
The cool and pleasant climate of Gairsain provides a respite from the sweltering heat experienced in other parts of Uttarakhand during the summer season. This makes it an ideal location for conducting administrative work and hosting government officials. The serene environment also contributes to the overall well-being and productivity of the people working in the administrative setup.
Additionally, Gairsain’s strategic location makes it easily accessible from Garhwal and Kumoun divison of Uttarakhand. The town is well-connected through a network of roads, ensuring smooth transportation for residents, tourists, and government officials. This accessibility factor played a pivotal role in making Gairsain an ideal choice for the summer capital.
Infrastructure Development and Economic Boost
The establishment of Gairsain as the capital of Uttarakhand in summer has paved the way for significant infrastructure development in the town and its surrounding regions. The government has undertaken several initiatives to enhance the connectivity, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and other amenities in Gairsain. This development not only caters to the needs of the administrative setup but also benefits the local population and encourages tourism.
The improved infrastructure in Gairsain has led to better connectivity within the town and its surrounding areas. This has made it easier for residents to access basic services and facilities, such as healthcare and education. The development of educational institutions has provided opportunities for the youth of Gairsain to gain quality education without having to travel to larger cities.
Moreover, Gairsain being the capital has led to an economic boost in the town’s economy. The influx of government offices, officials, and related activities has generated employment opportunities for the locals, leading to economic growth and prosperity. The increased focus on Gairsain as a capital has also attracted private investments, further contributing to the town’s development.
Preserving Cultural Heritage and Empowering Rural Areas
Another significant aspect of selecting Gairsain as the capital is the focus central location from both regions /divison of Uttarakhand . The town’s location is significance promoted this place as promising candidates for capital city of Uttarakhand . This not only helps in preserving the hill state’s identity but also attracts tourists who are keen to explore the cultural heritage of Uttarakhand HIlls.
The government, in collaboration with local communities and cultural organizations, has taken steps to preserve and showcase the traditional arts, crafts, music, and dance forms of Uttarakhand.
Cultural festivals and events are organized regularly to promote these art forms and provide a platform for local artists to showcase their talent. By doing so, Gairsain will emerged as a cultural hub and a center for promoting the unique cultural heritage of Uttarakhand.
Furthermore, designating Gairsain as the capital has empowered the rural areas surrounding the town. The development activities and investments have extended beyond the town limits, benefitting the rural population and promoting overall inclusive growth in hill rregions. The capital status has acted as a catalyst in bridging the urban-rural divide and ensuring equitable development across Uttarakhand.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the decision to make Gairsain the capital of Uttarakhand in summer was a landmark step in the state’s journey towards progress and development. The historical significance, geographical advantage, accessibility, infrastructure development, economic growth, and cultural preservation are some of the key factors that influenced this decision. Gairsain, with its serene environment and rich cultural heritage, continues to serve as a symbol of pride for the people of Uttarakhand while also attracting tourists from around the world.
