Image Courtesy: Mid-Day.com
Delhi lakes may not compare to the Dal in Srinagar, but the famous
shikaras are making their way to the city's waterways.
The Delhi tourism department is in the process of buying motorised versions of
shikaras for various lakes in the city.
A senior Delhi Transport and Tourism Development Corporation (DTTDC) official said that the new shikaras would be further modified after acquisition. Boating and other water sport facilities are available at four lakes in the city-- Purana Qila Lake, Model Town Lake, Sanjay Lake and Bhalsawa Lake.
"So far, there has not been a very good response to adventure tourism activities in the city but as the Commonwealth Games are approaching, such activities will get an impetus", said the official.
Boating is probably most popular at the Purana Qila Lake; about five such rides take place everyday. "But it is very low if we compare it to the number of visitors to the lake, added the official".
"To lure the visitors, the
shikaras would be redesigned and made more aesthetically pleasing. Also the wooden seats would be replaced with cushioned seats. They would have seating capacity of six persons each", he said.
The DTTDC currently operates boats and years old
shikaras in these lakes. "Most of them are have gone out of order now. At least five
shikaras will be bought. We can increase the number depending upon the terms offered by the supplying firm", said the official.