UP to develop Garhmukteshwar on lines of Haridwar

Lucknow, June 22 (IANS) The Uttar Pradesh government will develop Garhmukteshwar in Hapur district as a major tourist destination on the lines of Haridwar in Uttarakhand at a cost of Rs 500 crore, officials said on Friday.

At a meeting in the state capital presided over by Chief Secretary Rajive Kumar, it was decided that a detailed project report (DPR) be prepared "at earliest" for promotion of the destination, situated on the banks of Ganga, which is visited by millions every year.

"To attract the youth, eco-tourism and adventure tourism should also be developed along with the availability of other facilities like river rafting and boating in order to promote tourism in Garhmukteshwar," the Chief Secretary said.

For convenience of the pilgrims coming to Garhmukteshwar, a bathing ghat will be developed on both the sides of the river and a proposal would be prepared and presented soon to develop local handicrafts and arts by constructing craft markets, craft museum, arrangements to organize handicraft workshops, he added.

Keeping in view the comfort of the pilgrims visiting Garhmukteshwar, Ganga Haat and Tourist Centre, the heritage walk development of the ecological park in Alamgirpur would also be included in the proposal, an official told IANS while adding that necessary actions as per rules will be initiated with regards to setting up of a wellness resort in Khandav forest adventure camp under Ayush wellness village.