Punjab, which is all set to create an exclusive theme destination of its own in the Ranjit Sagar Dam, took the first step to make this possible with Deputy CM Sukhbir Singh Badal showcasing the site to a group of top hoteliers. Badal also outlined his desire to exploit the islands in the dam by creating five-star hotels, resorts and water sports activities around them. Flanked by top hoteliers of the country in a steamer, Badal took a round of Musharba, Kalara and Atharwan islands of Ranjit Sagar Dam.
Badal informed the delegates, that necessary infrastructure would be in place by June next year. He asked Chief Secretary Sarvesh Kaushal to design concept of Master plan by January in tandem with country’s top hoteliers and world-renowned architects so that these islands could be developed as one of the most attractive tourist destinations of the country.
Executive Vice President of ITC Hotels Arun Pathak asked about the proposed infrastructure facilities for industrialists willing to set up their resorts and hotels. Badal said Punjab would provide ultra modern infrastructure facilities right from 6-lane road network from Pathankot Airport to Phagonta besides uninterrupted 24x7 power supply with all clearances and NOCs within a month on a single application.
Badal said to exploit enormous tourism potential of sub-mountain regions along Shivalik Hills state has already constituted a Shivalik (Dauldhar) Tourism Development Board and its CEO has been authorized to approve conceptual designs, investment proposals and necessary clearances at the earliest.
President of The Oberoi Group Kapil Chopra lauded the initiative of Punjab Deputy CM to develop religio-cultural tourism on the banks of Ravi in lush green islands on the way to Vaishno Devi shrine and Dalhousie. Member Parliament Vinod Khanna assured the hoteliers and industrialists of fulsome cooperation from Punjab and Center to establish this belt as attractive tourist hub. He said he was also keen to invite film industry here to make them aware about the natural and suitable beauty of Shivalik Ranges falling adjoining Ranjit Sagar Dam.