Dehradun. In a bid to fuse cutting‑edge technology with the state’s adventure‑tourism push, Uttarakhand’s government has set in motion a comprehensive GPS‑GIS survey of one hundred key trekking and hiking corridors. The initiative was officially inaugurated on Friday when Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami dispatched an expedition team from his Camp Office.
The survey teams, assembled under the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board, will conduct ground‑level inspections of the selected routes. Beyond creating precise digital maps, they will pinpoint optimal spots for campsites, waste bins, sanitation units and other visitor amenities.
Why the Mapping Matters
CM Dhami emphasized that Uttarakhand’s rugged landscapes hold enormous potential for trekking and adventure sports. Scientific, technical mapping, she argued, will render the trails safer, better organized and far more navigable, while safeguarding the fragile Himalayan ecosystem.
Offline Access to Trail Data
Tourism Secretary Dhiraj Garbyal announced plans for a dual‑mode GPS navigation application—available both online and offline—drawn from the survey’s findings. Even in zones where cellular networks are absent, trekkers will be able to retrieve essential route details on their smartphones, a feature that will also aid rescue and relief missions during emergencies.
Economic and Community Impact
The project is projected to invigorate tourism in remote mountain hamlets, generating jobs for local youth in guiding, homestays and ancillary services. The Chief Minister has directed officials to ensure robust participation of indigenous communities throughout the endeavour.
- Preparation of a Detailed Project Report (DPR) post‑survey.
- Publication of a coffee‑table book showcasing lesser‑known trails.
- Elevating the visibility of these routes on national and international platforms.
Cabinet Minister Ganesh Joshi, Additional Secretary (Tourism) and Additional CEO of the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board Abhishek Ruhela, Additional Director (Tourism) Poonam Chand, along with other senior officials, attended the launch ceremony.
