Patna: Development commissioner Mihir Kumar Singh has instructed officials that the JP Ganga Path integrated park corridor should transcend mere beautification and evolve into a comprehensive model encompassing tourism, culture, environmental conservation, and public amenities. He emphasized that the project should become a major hub for water-based tourism, cultural events, public activities, nature observation, local entrepreneurship, and heritage tourism, rather than simply a recreational space.
Ambitious Riverfront Initiative
According to an official release, the state government's ambitious riverfront initiative aims to provide a modern identity to Pataliputra's legacy while promoting urban development, tourism, and ecological conservation. In the first phase, a nearly 6-kilometer green corridor is being developed along JP Ganga Path. The second phase will extend it to approximately 26 kilometers, connecting Patna City and creating a continuous green tourism stretch along the Ganga.
Detailed Project Report Deadline
Singh has directed departments to complete the detailed project report (DPR) for the first phase by August 31. Multiple agencies are involved, including tourism, water resources, urban development, Buidco, environment and forest, and BSRDCL. Planned facilities include a water metro jetty, tourism ghats, Ganga channel, Patna Haat, Waste-to-Wonder Park, Freedom Fighter Park, and Botanical and Butterfly gardens, along with other public amenities.
Theme-Based Shops and Design Competition
Approximately 50 theme-based shops, inspired by the 'Ganga and Pataliputra' theme, will also be developed. A design competition with prizes of Rs 51,000, Rs 21,000, and Rs 11,000 will be held to select an icon for the project.
Focus on Native Flora
Native tree species such as peepal, banyan, and pakad, along with thematic floral gardens, will be prioritized. Singh also directed departments to prepare a coordinated plan for parking, access routes, and civic amenities, and to use drone imagery and visuals to present the project effectively.
