Patna: Facilities at the Adalatganj Pond and park complex in Patna are expected to resume soon after Patna Smart City hands over its operation and maintenance to a private agency based in Bihar.
The agency has been selected for a five-year term under a rental model. According to Patna Smart City CEO Md Shamshad, document verification and other necessary procedures have been completed, and the agreement is expected to be signed within the next two to three days.
Private Agency To Manage Complex
Once the agreement is signed, the agency will take charge of the pond and the entire park complex. Its responsibilities will include maintenance, ticketing, parking, boating, food kiosks and the children’s play area.
The agency will also oversee the day-to-day operation of facilities and visitor services. Work is expected to begin immediately after the agreement is executed.
Entry And Boating Rates Fixed
Patna Smart City will determine the charges for entry, parking, boating and other recreational activities. The agency will not be allowed to impose fees beyond the prescribed rates.
The entry fee has been fixed at Rs 10 for children and Rs 20 for adults. Visitors will be allowed to remain inside the complex for up to three hours with a single entry ticket.
Boating will cost Rs 25 for 15 minutes. The prescribed rates will have to be displayed prominently within the premises.
Action Against Overcharging
The private agency will face a fine if it is found charging visitors more than the approved rates. Repeated violations could result in cancellation of the agreement.
The regulated fee structure is intended to ensure transparency and prevent visitors from being charged arbitrary amounts.
Boating, Laser Show And Food Services
Boating, laser shows and food services that had been disrupted or suspended because of maintenance issues are expected to resume under the new arrangement.
Two food kiosks will operate in the complex. The agency will be required to follow food safety and hygiene standards, with the sale of stale food prohibited.
Security And Waste Management
Security personnel will be deployed at the complex, while CCTV cameras will remain operational for round-the-clock surveillance.
A separate system for managing wet and dry waste will also be implemented, with the aim of maintaining cleanliness across the pond and park.
Open-Air Theatre For Events
The open-air theatre at the complex will be available for cultural events and startup programmes. The plan also includes using the space for social, cultural and creative activities.
Md Shamshad, CEO of Patna Smart City, said the handover to a private agency was aimed at improving operations, visitor amenities and safety at the complex. He said the prescribed rates would remain regulated and action would be taken against violations.
