In a significant boost to tourism in the heart of India, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav inaugurated a fleet of twenty new 'Shikara' boats on the historic Upper Lake in Bhopal on Thursday. Describing the event as a historic moment, Yadav stated that this initiative will redefine water tourism for the state, offering visitors an experience reminiscent of the iconic Dal Lake of Kashmir, right in the 'City of Lakes'.
A Nod to History and Tourism
The launch ceremony marked a new chapter for the nearly thousand-year-old Upper Lake, built during the era of Raja Bhoj. Chief Minister Yadav emphasized that the Shikara service is not just a tourist attraction but a step towards giving Madhya Pradesh's water tourism a new identity at both national and international levels. He urged citizens and tourists alike to come forward and enjoy this unique experience on the serene waters.
More Than Just a Boat Ride
The newly launched Shikaras are designed to offer a comprehensive experience. Visitors will find comfortable seating arrangements and food services on board, effectively functioning as floating restaurants. In a move to promote local culture and economy, tourists will also have the opportunity to purchase indigenous products during their ride. This includes traditional Bagh & Batik textiles and organic products from a floating market setup.
Demonstrating the offerings firsthand, CM Yadav, after flagging off the service, took a Shikara ride himself. He and other dignitaries present sampled tea, poha, samosas, and fruits served from the boat. The Chief Minister also engaged with the public, taking selfies with school and college students, and even viewed the sun through a telescope arranged by the Regional Science Centre, Bhopal, highlighting the push for scientific tourism alongside leisure.
Broad Support and Employment Prospects
The event saw the presence of a host of dignitaries, including Assembly Speaker Narendra Singh Tomar, Haryana Assembly Speaker Harvinder Kalyan, Leader of Opposition Umang Singhar, BJP State President Hemant Khadelwal, several MLAs, ministers, and Bhopal Mayor Malti Rai.
Speaker Narendra Singh Tomar noted that launching such a service on the vast Upper Lake in the state capital is a highly attractive proposition. He pointed out that this initiative will significantly expand tourism opportunities in Madhya Pradesh, which in turn is expected to create more employment for local communities. The expansion of water-sports activities by MP Tourism, as mentioned by the CM, aligns with this broader vision of economic growth through tourism.
The launch of the Shikara service represents a strategic blend of heritage promotion, tourism infrastructure development, and local economic stimulation, setting a new benchmark for experiential travel in central India.
