PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/ Dehradun Chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has said that the importance of forests and the environment has increased amid the growing challenges of global warming and climate change. He addressed people after inaugurating a Nagar Van Oxygen Park in Khatima on Tuesday. The CM said that development and the environment are not opposites but compliment one another. He averred that encouraging economic activities while maintaining a balance with nature and the environment is a priority of the State government, creating sustainable employment and livelihood opportunities for future generations. Dhami said that work is on a fast pace on electric vehicles, charging infrastructure and solar power projects to protect the environment and promote clean energy. The CM said that Khatima’s geographical location is important from the tourism perspective. He announced that a circuit house will be constructed in Khatima for the convenience of tourists and pilgrims traveling to Vyas Valley, Panchachuli and Adi Kailash. He also stated that financial assistance will be provided for the expansion of the City Forest Oxygen Park and the necessary resources. He said that the construction of the Urban Forest Oxygen Park will provide a clean, green and healthy environment for the residents of the area. The CM also directed the construction of pink toilets for the convenience of women within the park premises. Addressing the programme, Lok Sabha MP Ajay Bhatt said that under the leadership of CM Dhami, Uttarakhand is continuously moving ahead on the path of development and is making its mark among the leading states of the country in various fields Senior officers of administration and public representatives attended the programme.