Dehradun. The state government has initiated a move to integrate modern technology with trekking and adventure tourism in Uttarakhand. On Friday, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami flagged off an expedition team from the Chief Minister’s Camp Office to conduct GPS-GIS mapping and technical surveys of 100 major trekking and hiking routes across the state.
Teams constituted by the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board will conduct on-site surveys of the selected routes. In addition to digitally mapping the routes, the teams will identify suitable locations for campsites, dustbins, toilets, and other essential facilities.
Chief Minister Dhami said Uttarakhand has immense potential for trekking and adventure tourism. Scientific and technical mapping will help make trekking routes safer, more organized, and easier to navigate. He emphasized that tourist safety, along with the conservation of the Himalayan environment, remains a priority for the government.
Route Information Available Even Without Network Connectivity
According to Tourism Secretary Dhiraj Garbyal, an online and offline GPS navigation app will be developed based on the survey findings. Even in areas without network connectivity, trekkers will be able to access essential information about trails and routes through their mobile phones. The technology will also be useful for relief and rescue operations during emergencies.
The project is expected to boost tourism activities in remote mountainous areas and create employment opportunities for local youth in sectors such as guiding, homestays, and other tourism-related services. The Chief Minister directed officials to ensure the participation of local communities in the project.
According to the Tourism Department, a Detailed Project Report (DPR) and a coffee-table book will be prepared after the survey. The initiative aims to promote lesser-known trekking routes and give them greater visibility at the national and international levels.
Cabinet Minister Ganesh Joshi, Additional Secretary (Tourism) and Additional CEO of the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board Abhishek Ruhela, Additional Director (Tourism) Poonam Chand, and other concerned officials were present on the occasion.
