Himachal Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Tuesday inaugurated water sports activities in Gobind Sagar Lake in Mandi Bharari at Bilaspur. These include cruises, shikara rides, houseboats, hi-tech motorboats, jet skis and water scooters, marking a new chapter for tourism in the region.    Sukhu said that these activities will boost tourism potential and create ample employment and self employment opportunities to local youth. Alongside tourism, this initiative is expected to benefit local businesses, particularly women and small entrepreneurs by providing a new marketplace to sell local products. It will enhance the income and foster economic stability of the people of the region. He outlined a vibrant vision for the future of Bilaspur in tourism, stating, With the development of water sports, alongside initiatives in religious, rural and eco-tourism, Bilaspur is poised to become a premier attraction, comparable to popular destinations like Kerala and Goa. He said that the ongoing efforts of the government would elevate Bilaspurs status on Himachal Pradeshs tourism map, creating diverse experiences that highlight the districts natural beauty, cultural heritage and adventure opportunities. This comprehensive approach is expected to bring significant growth, attracting a broad spectrum of tourists and contributing to the regions economic development, he said. The Chief Minister said that the Bilaspur district administration has been instructed to start the tender process for introducing cruises and shikara rides on the Kol Dam reservoir also. As part of this ambitious project, a scenic 30-kilometer cruise route will be developed from Harnoda in Bilaspur district to Tattapani in Shimla district. This route will offer a unique travel experience for tourists, allowing them to enjoy a memorable cruise towards Shimla via Kol Dam. Sukhu himself took a ride on a jet ski and later enjoyed a scenic cruise, showcasing his support for the States booming tourism initiatives. These activities, part of his recent visit to promote water sports and eco-tourism, underscored the governments commitment to developing Himachal Pradesh as a top tourist destination. Talking to Reporters, the Chief Minister said that ever since the formation of the Congress Government in the State, efforts have been made to promote tourism and before the current government completes its two-year term, cruise and other water sports activities have already been started in Bilaspur. He added that tourism is a priority sector for the present State Government, and efforts are underway to promote the green industry and attract investment for it. He said that Himachal Pradesh has numerous water bodies with potential for water sports activities, which are being explored. Who could have imagined two years ago that Bilaspur would have cruises, jet skis and shikaras, but the Congress government has made it possible, he added.

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