The eagerly anticipated Almatti water amusement park, located near the Almatti Dam in Vijayapura district, is poised for inauguration in the first week of February, according to official statements. This development marks a significant milestone for regional tourism and recreational infrastructure.
Project Development and Cost
Constructed by the Krishna Bhagya Jal Nigam Limited (KBJNL), the water park project was initiated in 2022 on a five-acre plot situated behind the helipad at Almatti. The construction was successfully completed in 2024, with a total investment of Rs 9.4 crore. Multiple trial runs have been conducted to ensure operational readiness and safety standards.
Operational Challenges and Resolution
The inauguration faced delays primarily due to difficulties in finalizing a private agency for the park's operation and maintenance. Initially, the annual bid amount was set at Rs 65 lakh, but despite three rounds of tenders, no agency expressed interest. Subsequently, the bid amount was reduced to Rs 60 lakh, which attracted the Shower and Tower Water Park agency from Solapur, Maharashtra. This agency will now manage the park and pay Rs 60 lakh annually to KBJNL.
Park Features and Attractions
The Almatti water park boasts five distinct water sports, each with its own separate pond. It includes two major slides: one measuring 150 metres in length with a height of nine metres, and another that is 90 metres long and six feet high. The park is equipped with a modern water filtration and recycling system to ensure environmental sustainability and water conservation.
Visitor Facilities
To enhance the visitor experience, the park offers a range of amenities including locker rooms, waiting areas, separate washrooms, a cafeteria, and a primary health centre. These facilities are designed to provide comfort and convenience for families and tourists.
Tourism and Educational Potential
Sugar and Textile Minister Shivanand Patil highlighted the park's tourism potential, noting that Almatti already features a science park, making it an ideal destination for educational tours for children. He emphasized ongoing efforts to maintain existing parks and develop additional tourist attractions in the region to boost local tourism.
Additional Initiatives
Minister Patil also recalled that the 2023–24 state budget approved the establishment of a fisheries college at Almatti to train fishermen. As part of this initiative, steps have been taken to set up a fish fingerling production centre on the banks of the Krishna River, which is expected to be launched shortly.
Environmental Considerations
On the environmental front, Minister Patil acknowledged that the 'Koti Vruksha Campaign,' aimed at growing 10 lakh saplings annually through nurseries in Almatti, has been stalled for the past two years. He assured that efforts would be made to revive this programme at the earliest to promote ecological balance and green initiatives in the area.
