Govt moots state-of-the-art infra for Harike wetland
Anirudh Gupta
Ferozepur, January 12
After putting the brakes on the much-hyped amphibious bus project launched during the fag end of the previous SAD-BJP government to boost tourism in Harike, the present Congress government, after three years of coming to power, has finally woken up to develop the wetland and wildlife sanctuary and turn it into an international tourism hub.
Efforts rendered futile
The amphibious bus for the Harike cruise project purchased from automobile giant Scania at a cost of Rs 8.6 crore is gathering dust for the last three years. The cost, which included development of allied facilities like its parking bay, seems to have gone down the drain, causing loss to the state exchequer. Most of the people enrolled under the project have also lost their jobs. The private company that was hired to run the project had hired 150 employees, who have been left in the lurch. Former Tourism Minister Navjot Singh Sidhu had scrapped the project, saying it was ill-conceived and posed a threat to the ecology of the sanctuary.
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Earlier, then Tourism Minister Navjot Singh Sidhu had unveiled the blueprint for its development with the help of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) funding. However, things moved on at a snail’s pace. Now, the department has started expediting the pending plans.
As per information, Rs 9.37 crore has been spent on the construction of an interpretation centre, bird-watching towers, observation deck, parking and other facilities. In addition to this, the department has now mooted a proposal to develop state-of-the-art infrastructure, including restaurants, tented camping sites and tree houses, to attract the winged tourists.
As per reports, Rs 150 crore will be spent to harness Harike as a world-class tourism spot to attract tourists. On January 3, MLAs Harminder Singh Gill and Kulbir Singh Zira had inspected the ongoing works and had taken stock of the projects in the pipeline. As many as 48 pedal boats and six e-rickshaws have already been introduced to the spot. Besides, four golf carts have also been arranged.
Considered as the largest wetland in North India, this Ramsar site is spread in the sprawling area of 86 square km. It becomes a winter haven for migratory birds of various species that arrive here from Siberia, Europe and other parts of Central Asia. Many bird watchers have been frequenting the place since the beginning of this winter. Sources say around 1.25 lakh winged visitors have already flocked to the wetland.
Speaking to The Tribune, Zira said, “The wetland has the potential to be brought on the international tourist circuit. Tree houses and imported tents will be set up for bird watchers. A golf course is also in the pipeline. People of the region will be benefitted as the tourism industry will generate business and employment opportunities,” he said.
Zira said cruise boats would be added to the wetland if approved by the Chief Minister. He said unauthorised encroachment in the area would be removed.
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