This story is from July 24, 2019

Delhi's Shahdara lake to be turned into picnic spot

East Delhi may soon get a place where people can go for boating, morning walk, cycling and other recreational activities
Delhi's Shahdara lake to be turned into picnic spot
Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari
NEW DELHI: East Delhi may soon get a place where people can go for boating, morning walk, cycling and other recreational activities. On Tuesday, East Delhi Municipal Corporation (EDMC) initiated the work on a long-pending project to revive Shahdara Jheel and develop it as a picnic spot .
Union jal shakti minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari laid the foundation stone of Phase II, which will be implemented by EDMC.

A park on a 22-acre plot was planned under Phase I in 2012 but could not be finished due to the lack of funds. EDMC had spent Rs 4 crore and filled the jheel, spread over 30.7 acres, with treated water from a neighbouring drain. A plantation drive was also undertaken. EDMC had pursued Trans-Yamuna Area Development Board for the Phase II funds but it was disbanded in 2013. On Tuesday, mayor Anju said the Centre would fund the project.
“We have started the work to rejuvenate the lake. An administrative block, modern toilets, four main gates, 10,000 sq m pavement, a fountain and an amphitheatre will be constructed,” she said. Provisions will be made for parking and a bicycle stand. “To make the place beautiful and user-friendly, we will install four bridges, 10 biological walls and six seating areas. Attractive electric lighting and horticulture work will be undertaken. A boating facility will be arranged,” said an official.
Shekhawat said the Centre was trying to revive waterbodies across the country and people should also be involved in the drive. “Shahdara Jheel will be revived under Atal Mission for Urban Rejuvenation and Urban Change scheme and the Centre has sanctioned Rs 14 crore.”
Despite limited resources, EDMC is doing a great job in areas such as education, health and water conservation, said Tiwari. “The park will become an excellent picnic spot for locals.”
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