Patna: Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary on Saturday instructed officials from the water resources department to devise a special action plan aimed at restoring the historical identity of ancient Patliputra, with the development of the Ganga riverfront positioned as a cornerstone of Patna's future growth.
Review Meeting Directives
Chairing a review meeting of the department at Sankalp Sabhagar in Lok Sewak Awas, Samrat called for a detailed blueprint for the comprehensive development of the Ganga riverbank stretching from Kurji Ghat to Kali Ghat. He also emphasized expanding public amenities along the J P Ganga Path.
Tree Plantation and Tourism Vision
The chief minister directed officials to expedite the target of planting one lakh saplings along the J P Ganga Path. Describing the corridor as more than just an infrastructure project, he envisioned it as a major hub for tourism, recreation, and cultural activities. "The J P Ganga Path has the potential to become a new identity of Patna and attract tourists," he stated.
PPP and DBOM Models for Asset Utilization
Samrat also instructed officials to explore the feasibility of adopting public-private partnership (PPP) and design, build, operate, and maintain (DBOM) models for managing water resources department inspection bungalows. He proposed framing a policy to convert these into modern guest houses, ensuring better utilization of departmental assets.
Heritage Conservation and Tourism Promotion
Highlighting Bihar's historical heritage, cultural legacy, and the Ganga riverfront as invaluable assets, Samrat stressed the need for their conservation and development. He called for a coordinated plan to develop major tourist destinations and ensure accurate information dissemination to attract visitors from across India and abroad.
Integrated Development Plan
The chief minister emphasized that the glorious legacy of Patliputra must be preserved and presented to future generations and tourists through inter-departmental coordination. He directed officials to prepare an integrated development plan, including a comprehensive park, for the Kurji Ghat-Kali Ghat stretch.
Department Presentation
Earlier, water resources department secretary Chandra Shekhar Singh presented an overview of departmental assets, Ganga riverfront development, and tourism-related proposals.
