Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann inaugurated the Saleran Dam eco-tourism project on Sunday, marking a significant stride towards sustainable tourism and green development in the state. Constructed at a cost of ₹2.80 crore, this initiative aims to attract nature enthusiasts while generating employment opportunities and boosting revenue for Punjab.
Eco-Tourism Features and Strategic Vision
The Saleran Dam tourism site boasts four eco-friendly tree house huts, comprising two family huts and two couple huts. Additionally, it includes a cafeteria with a seating capacity of 80 people, a children's playground, and upcoming boating facilities. The Chief Minister emphasized that all safety measures have been meticulously planned to ensure visitor security.
Highlighting the dam's strategic location, Mann noted that Saleran Dam is situated just three metres below the Shahpur Kandi Dam. He expressed confidence that this project will replicate the success of the Chohal Dam tourism project in Hoshiarpur, which has already become a popular destination. Mann revealed that he will be staying at Chohal on the eve of Republic Day, as he plans to unfurl the national flag in Hoshiarpur.
Government Initiatives and Infrastructure Achievements
The eco-tourism project has been jointly developed by the Tourism Department and the Forest Department, reflecting the government's commitment to promoting nature-based tourism. Mann announced that 52 rest houses, previously in ruins, have been renovated and made fully functional, generating nearly ₹1 crore in revenue. Currently, 75 rest houses across Punjab are operational, with plans to expand tourism by identifying small dams and transforming them into eco-tourism hubs.
Mann took a swipe at previous governments, alleging that prime tourism spots were handed over to friends and close associates. He cited the example of a private hotel on the Neelon Canal, claiming it was allotted during a former CM's tenure. In contrast, his administration is developing public assets like the Nadampur Canal, with plans to develop Ropar and Sirhind as revenue-generating tourism spots.
Broader Development and Policy Highlights
Recalling his days as a Member of Parliament, Mann shared that he used to stay at Chohal when the rooms were dilapidated. He resolved to develop it if given the opportunity, and today Chohal features an open kitchen, tree huts, jungle safari, and thriving tourism. Similar projects are underway in Amritsar, while Chamrod Lake in Pathankot is being developed as an ideal destination for Bollywood shoots, pre-wedding shoots, and destination weddings, creating significant indirect employment.
When asked about his priorities in the last year of his government's tenure, Mann stated that his administration does not count years but focuses on work done from day one. He highlighted initiatives such as Mohalla Clinics, employment programs, zero power bills, and health insurance for every family. Government employees and pensioners are also covered under the ₹10-lakh Sehat Bima Yojana.
Infrastructure and Safety Milestones
Mann underscored major infrastructure achievements, including the construction of 43,000 km of roads. He credited the Sadak Surakhya Force (SSF) for a 48% reduction in road accident deaths during his tenure. Additionally, Punjab has successfully brought canal water to areas that had remained dry for decades, transitioning regions from dark zones to average zones.
Agricultural and Power Sector Advancements
On agriculture and horticulture, Mann mentioned that under a Japanese collaboration project (JICA), the area under horticulture will be expanded from the current 6% to 15% in the coming years. He praised PSPCL as the country's second-best power utility, noting that the state is earning through balanced schemes.
Law and Order and Technological Innovations
Regarding law and order, Mann reminded the Opposition of issues during their tenure and stated that his government has launched a crackdown against gangsters and drug networks. Addressing the issue of Chinese kite strings (China door), which have caused injuries and deaths, he emphasized public responsibility but assured that strict laws will be enforced if necessary. Mann also announced that Punjab is the first state in the country to install an anti-drone system, funded entirely by the state.
In a related note, Mann highlighted that this year Punjab's tableau, presented on Republic Day in Delhi, is based on the theme of the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur, the 'Hind Di Chadar' of India. This reflects the state's cultural and historical pride alongside its developmental efforts.
