Lucknow: The UP cabinet on Monday approved the technical bid and presentation for the adaptive reuse of Chunar Fort in Mirzapur, Barua Sagar in Jhansi, and Chhatar Manzil in Lucknow. The proposal was tabled by the state tourism department as part of its effort to use heritage buildings, forts, and other properties for tourism development on public-private partnership model.
With the inclusion of these sites, now six properties will be developed under the project. Earlier, Barsana water palace in Mathura, Kothi Roshan-ud-Daula in Lucknow, and Baradari near Shukla Talab in Kanpur had been selected.
"The selected properties: Chhatar Manzil (5.5 acres), Chunar Fort (22 acres), and Barua Sagar Fort (7.4 acres) will be leased out initially for 30 years under the PPP model. There would be possibility of two extensions of 30 years each, for the maximum period of 90 years," said tourism minster Jaiveer Singh.
He said the selected developers will preserve the historical, cultural, and religious significance of these sites while promoting them to tourists. "Religious sites within the heritage properties will be restored and access roads will be improved. Developers will also adopt nearby villages to encourage local development and job creation, with a mandate to employ at least 25% local residents," the minister told reporters.
Singh said a mart showcasing One District One Product (ODOP) goods will be set up at these sites, along with display areas highlighting the historical importance of the properties. "These areas will remain open to the public, offering tourists not only insight into the region's rich history but also the opportunity to enjoy local cuisine," he said.
In another decision, the cabinet approved the acquisition of 68 hectares of land in Baghpat district and its transfer to the state tourism department for the development of a Yoga and Wellness Centre on PPP basis.