The proposal to establish a water theme park in Sidhra, Jammu, is poised to become a significant milestone in enhancing the region’s tourism infrastructure. A recent meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo reviewed the feasibility of developing this recreational facility along the banks of the River Tawi, adjacent to the Sidhra Golf Course. Here’s a detailed overview of the project and its anticipated impact.
Key Highlights of the Proposed Water Theme Park in Jammu
Strategic Location and Land Assessment
The proposed site spans 92 Kanals and 3 Marlas in the village of Dwara, Sidhra, located approximately 4 kilometers from the National Highway. Strategically situated near the Sidhra Golf Course, this prime land has been earmarked for recreational use as per the Master Plan 2032. The estimated land value stands at ₹129.36 crores.
Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo emphasized the importance of securing a No Objection Certificate (NoC) from the Forest Department to ensure the land is free of encumbrances. The Jammu Development Authority (JDA) plans to use this land as equity for the project, creating a reliable source of income for the authority.
Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Model
The Chief Secretary has urged the JDA to invite Expressions of Interest (EoI) to develop the water theme park under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. This approach ensures sustainable funding while leveraging private sector expertise to create a world-class amusement facility.
The Commissioner Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Department (H&UDD), Mandeep Kaur, informed the attendees that an earlier floated EoI received a promising response. The appointment of a transaction advisor to draft a Request for Proposal (RFP) is currently under consideration.
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Tourism Boost: A Game-Changer for Jammu
This water theme park aims to complement existing attractions such as the Tawi Lake Front and Zoological Park, thereby strengthening Jammu’s position as a tourist hub. The Chief Secretary expressed confidence that this initiative would significantly increase tourist footfall, transforming Jammu into a destination in its own right.
Projected Visitor Numbers
Preliminary estimates suggest the water park could attract approximately 20 lakh visitors annually. This includes pilgrims visiting Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine and Amarnathji Yatra, local residents, and tourists exploring other attractions in the region.
Additional Benefits of the Project
- Revenue Generation for JDA:
The project is expected to provide a steady income stream for the Jammu Development Authority, which can be reinvested in further infrastructural improvements. - Enhanced Infrastructure:
The establishment of the water park will lead to better connectivity and amenities, benefiting both tourists and local communities. - Increased Employment Opportunities:
The development and operation of the park will create numerous job opportunities, boosting the local economy. - Diversification of Tourism Offerings:
By adding a unique recreational attraction, Jammu will appeal to a broader audience, including families and adventure enthusiasts.
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Next Steps in Project Development of Water Theme Park in Sidhra
The Chief Secretary has advised the Jammu Development Authority to present the project proposal to its Board of Directors (BoD) for approval. The BoD is empowered to decide on the next course of action, ensuring that the project aligns with the region’s long-term development goals.
Additionally, stakeholders have been encouraged to expedite the finalization of the RFP and initiate the bidding process to attract reputed developers capable of delivering this ambitious project.
The proposed water theme park in Sidhra, Jammu, promises to be a transformative project for the region. By blending recreation with infrastructure development, it aims to enhance the overall tourist experience while boosting the local economy. As Jammu continues to invest in projects like these, it is set to emerge as a premier tourist destination in India, offering something for everyone—from spiritual pilgrims to leisure travelers.
