India, ADB sign $126.4M loan to boost eco-tourism in Tehri Garhwal, climate-vulnerable region of Uttarakhand
The Government of India and Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed a $126.4 million loan deal to promote sustainable tourism in Uttarakhand's Tehri Garhwal region. The project will support rural development, improve infrastructure, enhance disaster preparedness, and generate livelihoods while protecting the environment and promoting inclusive growth.
Tehri Garhwal: In a major initiative to promote sustainable tourism and rural development, the Government of India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) have signed a $126.42 million loan agreement for a project focused on the Tehri Garhwal region of Uttarakhand.
The agreement was signed by Ms. Juhi Mukherjee, Joint Secretary in the Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance, and Mr. Kai Wei Yeo, Officer-in-Charge of ADB’s India Resident Mission.
Aims to uplift the entire Tehri Garhwal region
Titled the "Sustainable, Inclusive, and Climate-Resilient Tourism Development at Tehri Lake Area Project,” the initiative aims not only to boost tourism around Tehri Lake but to uplift the entire Tehri Garhwal region, one of the most climate-vulnerable and economically backward areas in the state. The project is expected to directly benefit over 87,000 local residents and improve services for the 2.7 million tourists who visit the region annually.
Project will combine tourism development with climate resilience and rural livelihood generation
Ms. Mukherjee said the ADB loan supports Uttarakhand’s strategy to develop as a year-round, diversified tourism destination. With Tehri Lake and surrounding areas identified as key to this vision, the project will combine tourism development with climate resilience and rural livelihood generation. Mr. Yeo added that the project is a model for using tourism as a tool for sustainable development, especially in areas facing both environmental and economic challenges.
Nature-based solutions to manage environmental risks and protect the landscape
The project will improve basic infrastructure like roads, sanitation, and tourism facilities while ensuring they are designed to handle natural disasters such as landslides and floods. It also includes nature-based solutions to manage environmental risks and protect the landscape. Inclusive tourism is a key focus, with plans to make facilities accessible for people with disabilities and support women-led and youth-led tourism businesses. A special grant program will help local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) start or grow sustainable tourism ventures.
Creation of women-led disaster risk management teams in selected villages
Another unique aspect of the project is the creation of women-led disaster risk management teams in selected villages to enhance local preparedness and safety. This holistic approach is expected to bring long-term benefits to both residents and tourists, making Tehri Garhwal a cleaner, safer, and more attractive destination.
Implementation is set to begin soon, with high hopes for transforming the region’s economy while preserving its natural and cultural heritage.