Prayagraj: The tourism department’s proposal to develop Alwara Lake — in Alwara village within the Manjhanpur tehsil of Kaushambi district — as an eco-tourism destination, to foster balanced development, environmental conservation and local employment opportunities, has received the green signal from state govt. District tourism officer for Kaushambi Kirtiman Srivastava said that the lake will be developed at an estimated cost of approximately Rs 4.40 crore. Work on the project is set to commence immediately upon the completion of the tender process.Developing the site as an eco-tourism site will attract a significant number of tourists, said the official.Spanning in 407 hectares, the lake holds immense potential for eco-tourism development due to its rich biodiversity, natural beauty, serene atmosphere and the seasonal arrival of migratory birds. As a designated wetland, a specific section of the lake becomes a gathering ground for a multitude of exotic birds during the winter season. The vast expanse of Alwara Lake, coupled with its rich heritage of biodiversity, opens up immense possibilities for its development as an eco-tourism destination. Srivastava confirmed that the budget approved by the govt will be utilised to construct a floating meditation centre, a cafeteria, an RCC (reinforced concrete) pathway, eco-themed benches along the pathway, bamboo cottages, a watchtower, restrooms, chain fencing, signage, lighting and designated selfie points. Moreover, survey work has already begun to explore the feasibility of introducing eco-friendly water-based tourism activities — such as boating, water safaris, kayaking, paddle boating and the establishment of a floating restaurant — at the site. Preparations are underway to establish Kaushambi’s Alwara Lake as a key site within the Ramayana Tourism Circuit. Divisional commissioner Saumya Agarwal has issued directives to develop this lake as a prominent centre of the circuit. Given its strategic location amidst major religious sites like Ayodhya, Prayagraj and Chitrakoot, the lake holds immense potential to be developed into a major nature-based tourism destination under the Ramayana Tourism Circuit, she said. She further suggested that to promote wellness tourism in the region, an International Yoga and Meditation Centre, as well as an Ayurveda and Panchakarma-based wellness retreat, could also be established in the vicinity of the lake.
