The iconic Rashtrapati Ashiana, located on Rajpur Road in Dehradun, is set to open its doors to the general public from June. President Droupadi Murmu will inaugurate the facility on June 20 during her upcoming visit to Uttarakhand. In addition to the inauguration, the President will also lay the foundation stone for a state-of-the-art public park being developed over 132 acres. The park is expected to be completed and opened to citizens by next year.
In preparation for the President’s visit, Dr. Rakesh Gupta, Additional Secretary to the President of India, chaired a high-level meeting on Thursday at the Rashtrapati Ashiana to review ongoing preparations. During the meeting, Dr. Gupta assessed the progress of various projects within the premises, including the advanced public park, developments on the 19.5-acre Lower Estate, and new construction work spread over 21 acres.
He emphasised the importance of completing all necessary arrangements, such as roads, electricity, water supply, traffic management, parking, peace, and security, before the President’s arrival. Dr. Gupta remarked that the President is about to present a significant gift to the people of Uttarakhand.
The revitalised Rashtrapati Ashiana complex will offer a range of attractions and facilities for visitors, including a Visitor Facilitation Centre, an amphitheatre, art display areas, a cafeteria, a souvenir shop, and even horse stables, making it a unique cultural and recreational destination.
He also appreciated the suggestions provided by Dehradun District Magistrate Savin Bansal. Notably, the development of the park and its design were initiated based on the District Magistrate’s recommendations and were subsequently included in the larger project plan.
The review meeting was attended by several senior officials, including Irrigation Secretary Dr. R. Rajesh Kumar, Director of the Presidential Secretariat Swati Shah, Manager Jai Kumar Shah, Senior Superintendent of Police Ajay Singh, Additional Secretary Vineet Tomar, and other departmental representatives.
With the opening of the Rashtrapati Ashiana, Uttarakhand is poised to gain a significant cultural and tourism landmark, further enriching the region’s historical and natural appeal.
