Patna: Bihar is preparing a major push to develop water tourism across the state, with 276 water bodies, including dams, ponds, lakes and rivers, identified for tourism development under a mega masterplan prepared by the Environment, Forest and Climate Change Department.
The state government plans to develop more than 70 water bodies in the first phase under the public-private partnership (PPP) model. Boating facilities are expected to be introduced at these sites in phases, with the first attractions targeted for launch by March.
According to the plan, the water tourism programme could enable around 12 lakh tourists every month to enjoy boating and related activities. The government expects the sector to generate direct and indirect employment for more than 10,000 people.
A dedicated water tourism map will also be prepared to help tourists locate and access the state’s water-based attractions.
Among the prominent destinations proposed for development are the Ganga in Patna, Kabar Lake in Begusarai, Falgu River in Gaya, Ghora Katora in Nalanda and Kakolat in Nawada.
Boating and water sports planned on major rivers
The government’s plan extends beyond lakes and reservoirs, with boating and water sports proposed on several major rivers.
Floating jetties are planned on the Ganga, Gandak, Kosi, Son and Punpun rivers. The attractions are expected to include speedboats and cruises, along with experiences such as bird watching and river safaris.
The state is also looking to create different boating experiences for tourists based on age groups and preferences.
10 types of boats planned
The water tourism programme will feature around 10 types of boats and watercraft, including:
- Speedboats
- Jet skis
- Shikaras
- Houseboats
- Paddle boats
- Motorboats
- Kayaks
- Canoes
- Rafts
- Rowing boats
Speedboats and jet skis are expected to cater to younger visitors and adventure tourism enthusiasts, while shikaras and houseboats will offer a quieter experience. Paddle boats and motorboats will be aimed at families, while kayaking, canoeing, rafting and rowing will add water-sports options.
Bihar expects 10,000-plus jobs from water tourism
The government expects the expansion of water tourism to have an impact beyond ticket sales and boating operations.
More than 10,000 direct and indirect employment opportunities are expected to emerge as the projects become operational.
The government expects the initiative to benefit:
- Hotels and resorts, through increased tourist footfall
- Floating restaurants, by creating a new customer base
- Local transport services, through higher tourist movement
- Tour guides and lifeguards, with demand expected to rise
- Water-sports operators, creating new local income opportunities
The development could also create business opportunities for local vendors and service providers around major tourist destinations.
PPP model to drive development
The state plans to use the PPP model to develop selected ponds, dams and other water bodies as tourism destinations.
Officials said agencies have already visited sites identified for the first phase and are preparing detailed project reports (DPRs). The first-phase work is expected to begin by December, while boating facilities are targeted for rollout by March.
“Water bodies across Bihar will be developed as water tourism destinations under the PPP model. To begin the first phase and provide facilities to tourists from across the country and abroad, the agency has already conducted site visits and is preparing the DPR. Work on the first phase is expected to begin by December,” said Anand Kishor, Additional Chief Secretary, Environment, Forest and Climate Change Department.
The government expects the proposed network of water-based attractions to add a new dimension to Bihar’s tourism sector while creating employment and business opportunities around the state’s rivers, lakes, ponds and reservoirs.
