Bilaspur, Himachal Pradesh — In a move to expand its tourism offerings beyond hill destinations, Himachal Pradesh on Monday launched its first floating jetty food court on the serene waters of Gobind Sagar Lake in Bilaspur district. The project was inaugurated by Dr. Rajeev Kumar, Managing Director of the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC).
Role of Different Organisation
The initiative, developed jointly by the Gobind Sagar Adventure and Water Sports Association and HPTDC, marks the beginning of water-based tourism infrastructure in the State. Speaking at the event, Dr. Kumar said the project would help bring Gobind Sagar Lake onto the global tourism map and generate new employment avenues for local youth.“Since 2009, the Association has been working to highlight Gobind Sagar’s potential for adventure and eco-tourism. This floating food court will not only offer a unique experience to visitors but also strengthen the local economy,” he said.
MOU Signed
On the occasion, an MoU was signed between HPTDC and the Gobind Sagar Adventure and Water Sports Association. Under the agreement, tourists visiting the floating jetty food court will receive special discounts on meals at the venue. The MoU was signed by Association president Saraj Akhtar and Hotel Lake View manager Tulsi Ram Thakur.
Bilaspur new Tourist Hub
The floating restaurant is part of the broader campaign “Chalo Bilaspur, Chalo Himachal”, aimed at promoting tourism in lesser-known destinations of the State. The Association’s State president, Mr. Akhtar, said the project was conceived to “give a new direction to Bilaspur’s tourism potential and encourage sustainable recreation activities around the lake.”Officials said the venture is expected to stimulate local entrepreneurship and employment, particularly in hospitality and water sports sectors. Authorities also emphasized that environmental safeguards and responsible tourism practices will be strictly followed to maintain the ecological balance of the lake.
Gobind Sagar Lake
Gobind Sagar Lake, formed by the Bhakra Dam on the Sutlej River, is one of Asia’s largest man-made reservoirs. With this development, Himachal Pradesh joins a select group of Indian States experimenting with floating infrastructure as a means to promote sustainable, experience-based tourism.
