Concerned citizens release Doon Declaration seeking improvement & protection of city

Sunday, 26 November 2023 | PNS | DEHRADUN

Considering various factors including unplanned urbanization, environmental degradation and other aspects affecting Dehradun, the Sanyukt Nagarik Sangathan (SNS) released the Doon Declaration seeking improvement and conservation of the city. The declaration was released by SNS members while addressing the media at the Press Club here on Saturday.

The founder of the Social Development for Communities Foundation Anoop Nautiyal said that the current state of the city is negatively impacting the health of its residents under the guise of Smart City development. He emphasised that the people have been consistently requesting the enhancement of Dehradun, which has deteriorated over the past two decades. In response to this, members of various groups under the banner of SNS released the Doon Declaration which was prepared after detailed public discussions. Nautiyal said that this declaration will be submitted to the State government for the purpose of improving and maintaining the condition of Dehradun.

Commenting on the subjects of the Doon Declaration, Nautiyal said, “With the release of the Doon Declaration, we aim to present our perspectives to the State government in a structured manner. The content is divided into three sections. Section one comprises 20 points highlighting the deteriorating conditions of Doon and proposing potential improvements. The second section consists of five points discussing critical concerns for the future of Doon. Lastly, the third section provides suggestions for enhancing governance in Dehradun.”

He further said that all three sections not only describe the current state of Doon, which has been negatively impacted by the implementation of Smart City initiatives but also propose measures to prevent further deterioration and offer suggestions for improvement. Emphasising on the need to enhance public transport, promote the use of e-vehicles, address road accidents, combat deforestation and other crucial topics, the declaration includes specific recommendations. The State government should give due consideration to the points outlined in the declaration with the aim of improving the condition of Doon, he added.