Lucknow: Under the guidance of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the government of Uttar Pradesh has launched a new initiative to promote eco-tourism in the state. The UP Eco-Tourism Board, in collaboration with the Irrigation Department, will develop adventure and water sports facilities at seven key dams and reservoirs, aiming to strengthen the tourism economy and create employment opportunities for local youth.
Seven Major Dams and Reservoirs to Become Eco-Tourism Hubs
The initiative will focus on the following locations:
- Garhmau Lake, Jhansi
- Nawab Tank, Banda
- Arjun Dam, Mahoba
- Dhandhraul Dam, Sonbhadra
- Maudha Dam, Hamirpur
- Gunta Dam, Chitrakoot
- Majhouli Sagar, Siddharthnagar
These sites will be developed as eco-tourism hubs, featuring modern facilities to enhance the visitor experience.
Planned Facilities and Activities
Each location will include a range of tourist-friendly amenities such as:
- Entry gates and ticket counters
- Cottages and restaurants
- Cafeterias and open-air theaters
- Children’s play areas and interpretation centers
- Landscaped gardens, solar lighting, and selfie points
Visitors will also enjoy boating, fishing, water sports, aqua pressure walkways, and other adventure activities, providing a unique eco-tourism experience.
Majhouli Sagar: State’s Largest Eco-Tourism Project
The Majhouli Sagar project in Siddharthnagar will be the largest under this initiative, spanning 88.2 hectares. Planned facilities include:
- Interpretation center
- Floating jetty
- Toy train
- Cottages and restaurant
This project is expected to serve as a flagship model for eco-tourism in the state.
Special Features at Individual Sites
- Dhandhraul Dam, Sonbhadra: Façade lighting, parking facilities, jetty, and information center
- Nawab Tank, Banda: Musical fountain and water screen show
- Arjun Dam, Mahoba: New tourism facilities near Sun Temple area
- Gunta Dam, Chitrakoot: Entry gate and children’s play area
- Garhmau Lake, Jhansi: Pathways and cafeteria
- Maudha Dam, Hamirpur: Open-air theater, watch tower, and park
These customized developments aim to provide distinct experiences at each location, enhancing the overall tourism circuit.
Boost to Tourism Economy and Local Employment
The Tourism Department noted that this initiative will complement existing religious, natural, and historical tourism sites in the state, attracting more visitors. Following approval from the Irrigation Department, construction work will begin, which is expected to significantly increase tourist footfall, boost state revenue, and create new employment opportunities for local communities.
