Dehradun: A modern rafting base will be developed and constructed in the yoga and tourism city Rishikesh under the scheme called the Special Assistance to States/UTs for Capital Investment (SASCI).
On Wednesday, the central government approved an amount of rupees 3295 crores for the development of 40 different tourist spots across the country under the SASCI.
Inadequate infrastructure in Rishikesh hampers rafting activities
With its existing inadequate infrastructure, Rishikesh city is unable to promote rafting activities currently. Local people and tourists face problems because of the absence of required infrastructure. The city also lacks a proper system for booking rafting adventures at the originating rafting points such as Brahmapuri, Shivpuri, Marine Drive and Kaudiyala, besides the ending points, including Neem Beach, Laxman Jhula and Janki Jhula. There are no basic facilities like toilets and changing rooms. Safety is also a cause of concern for rafting adventures.
Rafting Base Station Project to address infrastructure challenge
Rishikesh needed the Rafting Base Station Project to address the infrastructure challenges and gaps in rafting tourism in Rishikesh. According to a press release, the project aims to centralize rafting operations at ISBT and provide standardized booking systems and enhanced facilities to attract high-paying tourists and boost economic development.
Plan to develop centralized rafting base station
The release further mentioned that the project envisages development of a centralized rafting base station equipped with essential amenities such as toilets, proper changing rooms, and roadside food shops to enhance tourist experience. The proposed construction of alternative routes will help reduce congestion in the Tapovan area and the implementation of an ITC-based monitoring system to ensure safety and efficiency.
A waste management system will be in place
There is also a plan to establish a waste management system to promote environmental sustainability and maintain the ecosystem of the area. As per one assessment, the project is expected to generate jobs for about 1500 people.
State government will provide land
The land required for this project will be provided by the state government. While the state government will implement the project, the union ministry of tourism will monitor it. The release said 66% of the amount for the scheme has been released to the states.
The projects to be completed within two years
As per the deadline set by the central government, the states will complete the development work of the tourist destinations under Special Assistance to States/UTs for Capital Investment (SASCI) within two years.
