Canal front to be developed for recreational activities

Tribune News Service

Karnal, October 20

The Karnal Municipal Corporation (KMC) has chalked out a plan to develop a canal front at the junction of three canals—including Western Yamuna, Bhakra and SYL — near Saidpura village on the outskirt of the city. Taking inspiration from the development of the Sabarmati river front in Ahmedabad, the step aims at promoting tourism and recreational activities among residents.

A proposal has been sent to the Additional Chief Secretary (ACS), Irrigation and Water Resource Department, for the transfer of land and an NOC. The authorities are hopeful for the NOC and if all goes as per the plan, the city will have a spot for several fitness activities.

“The KMC has sent a proposal to the ACS requesting grant of an NOC for developing a canal front to boost social-economic development of the areas,” said Priyanka Soni, Commissioner, KMC.

A branch of the Bhakra canal touches the SYL canal and the Western Yamuna canal near Saidpura village. These canals make the land fertile and boost the possibility of riverside waterfront eco-friendly tourism. The KMC has identified this land for the beautification of the city and environmental sustainability, she said.

The purpose of the project is to maintain the ecological of the waterfront as well as protecting the existing natural areas. Besides, it aims at conserving the flora and fauna and maintain the embankments of the canals.

After the approval, a space for recreational activities such as jogging, food courts, restaurants, resorts, re-development of ghats, observation deck and others would be developed for residents, she maintained.

“We also plan to develop an island park between these canal junctions to promote tourism,” the Commissioner said.

The step would provide employment opportunities to people, she added.