Staff Reporter

Shillong, June 18: The state government has earmarked Rs 7.3 crore for the beautification and desiltation of the iconic Ward's Lake in Shillong to further enhance its appeal as a major tourist destination.

Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh, speaking to reporters on Tuesday, said the funds will be utilized through the Urban Affairs Department.

“I’m glad to share that an amount of Rs 7.3 crore has already been earmarked for the beautification of Ward’s Lake. This will include water treatment, specifically oxygenation of the lake,” Lyngdoh stated.

He added that desiltation will be undertaken as part of efforts to boost the lake’s tourism potential.

“We are moving ahead with the desiltation of the lake to restore its pristine quality and enhance its appeal.”

The minister informed that the Notice Inviting Tender (NIT) has already been issued, and groundwork is expected to begin within the next two weeks.

“Once the cleaning and beautification work is taken up, you will see the water becoming sparkling clean. We will be using a technology known as Nano Babla to oxygenate the lake and improve water quality,” he added.

Lyngdoh also announced that Rs 4 crore has been sanctioned for the light and sound show at Ward’s Lake. “By the end of the monsoon season, we should be able to begin work on the light and sound show. The tendering process will begin soon, and groundwork is expected to start by August or September. The project is likely to take six to eight months to complete.”

In addition to lake development, the minister said the government is planning to construct public toilets at 10–12 key tourist destinations across the state. “Around 10 to 12 locations have been identified, and each toilet will be constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 25 lakh,” he informed.

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