Yamuna riverfront project gains pace, Kalighat food hub proposed

Prayagraj: The Sangam city is set to witness a major boost in tourism and recreational infrastructure as multiple projects aimed at developing the Yamuna riverfront and the mela area are going on simultaneously.

Authorities have proposed a modern street food hub at Kalighat, planned the expansion of riverfront aarti ceremonies, initiated beautification measures in the mela area and started preparations to introduce new pedal boats for tourists, all with the objective of making the city a more attractive destination for visitors.Among the key proposals is the development of a dedicated street food hub at Kalighat on the banks of the Yamuna.

The state govt has sought proposals from 11 cities, out of which five will be selected for funding to develop organised food zones. In response, the District Urban Development Agency, or DUDA, has submitted a proposal for an 80-stall food hub at Kalighat at an estimated cost of Rs 4 crore. Besides food stalls, the project includes plans for parking facilities, a play zone for children and a green belt.

Officials said Kalighat was selected after surveying several locations across the city because of the availability of sufficient land and its growing importance as a tourist attraction.

The site already hosts a floating boat service and is also witnessing the installation of statues of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Syama Prasad Mookerjee and Ashok Singhal.Officials said the proposed facility would be different from existing food zones in the city. Strict quality standards will be maintained, and stalls are expected to be allotted to reputed and branded food establishments to ensure a hygienic and high-quality dining experience for visitors.The Prayagraj Mela Authority is also planning to expand cultural activities along the riverfront. After launching formal aarti ceremonies at Sangam and VIP Ghat on the occasion of Ganga Dussehra, the administration now plans to begin a similar aarti programme at Kalighat. This will be the first time that an organised and officially conducted aarti will be held at the ghat, adding another attraction for tourists and devotees.To further strengthen tourism infrastructure, the mela administration is preparing several beautification projects in the mela area. Land is proposed to be taken on lease from the Army, following which commercial establishments in the area will be developed in a uniform pattern. Authorities also plan to create selfie points and other visitor-friendly facilities.Water tourism is also set to receive a major push. PDA has initiated the process of purchasing 10 new pedal boats for the Boat Club and has already floated tenders for the same. The existing pedal boats, purchased in 2019, have become worn out due to continuous use, and many are no longer operational. Safety concerns also emerged after a recent incident involving an uncontrolled pedal boat, following which operations of the old fleet were suspended.

Boat Club officer D P Singh said the new boats would provide safer and more enjoyable rides, allowing tourists and city residents to enjoy pedal boating on the Yamuna during the winter season.