Shimla ice-skating rink to get Rs 20.22-crore makeover
Renovated facility to also host national and international events
To give a major boost to the tourism sector in Shimla, the state government has decided to transform the historic ice-skating rink at Lakkar Bazaar into a state-of-the-art facility at an estimated cost of Rs 20.22 crore.
The rink, established in 1920 during the British rule, has remained a major tourist attraction for decades and has inspired thousands of budding ice-skaters.
A government spokesperson said here today that the redevelopment project aims to provide an enhanced and world-class experience to tourists visiting Shimla, while also promoting winter sports in the region.
Under the proposed plan, certain old and functionally obsolete structures, including the Old Club House buildings and the servant residence, will be dismantled to facilitate the new development, he added.
The upgraded ice-skating rink, located in the heart of the town, is expected to significantly boost tourism and promote sports activities such as ice hockey and figure skating. “The facility will create new opportunities for sports enthusiasts to train and compete and will provide easy access to aspiring ice-skaters, professional athletes and tourists alike. It will also serve as a platform to host national and international events, thereby placing Shimla prominently on the sports map, he added.
Of the total estimated cost of Rs 20.22 crore, Rs 2.81 crore will be spent on the construction of a new Club House building, Rs 16.09 crore on the ice-skating rink infrastructure and Rs 1.21 crore on a store, souvenir shop and other basic amenities. Additionally, Rs 11.20 lakh will be allocated for the demolition of the old Club House buildings I and II and the servant residence.
