Cuttack: This revamped boat club is created by Odisha Tourism through OTDC with an investment of Rs.2 Crore with a view to promote water-based recreation in River Mahanadi.
Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik inaugurated the project and in his virtual address said, “To tap the State’s tourism potential incorporating water bodies, we are rapidly developing tourism and hospitality infrastructure in identified areas. This recreational offering in the mighty Mahanadi river will help in establishing Odisha as a sought-after tourism hub.”
The infrastructure at this Boat Club, adversely impacted by Cyclone Fani, has been upgraded to include a floating jetty, booking counter and complex for lifeguards, toilet complex, a restaurant , adequate parking space and a park with children’s play area.
The infrastructure will be further augmented in phases. The activities that will be operationalized in the Boat Club include Jet Skis, Speed Boats, Day Cruise, Banana Boat, Inflatable Boat, Water Scooters, Floating café, Kayaking, Canoeing, Pedal Boats, Scuba Diving etc. OTDC will operate and manage the boat club, where operators will be allowed to use the common infrastructure and facilities on a user fee model.
Addressing the public MP Rajya Sabha Subas Singh emphasized on creation of additional cottages for night stay in the Silver City Club which will attract tourists from different corner.
He also requested to extend the Cuttack city in the Golden Triangle of the State which will enhance the tourist footfall. Addressing the gathering MP Loksabha Bhatruhari Mahatab requested the Department of Tourism to include the Maritime Museum in the Tourism Map of Odisha and to explore the potential of other nearby tourist locations.
In his addressed Principal Secretary, Tourism Vishal Kumar Dev mentioned about the strategy of development of specific tourist destinations in the entire State.
Mr.Dev is the Prime Mover for this innovative project, which will attract large number of tourists to enjoy recreation in River Mahanadi.
Addressing the gathering Minister, Tourism Jyoti Prakash Panigrahi said, “This project comes with basic infrastructure to support multiple Water Sports operators and promote water-based tourism offerings in Cuttack and nearby districts.”
As of now two operators will start operations at the Boat Club and steps are being taken for engagement of additional operators for operations over the next month.