Kamrup DC and SP at the Gandhi Mandap on Monday. Picture by S.H. Patgiri

Jan. 27: Kamrup deputy commissioner (metropolitan) A.K. Absar Hazarika yesterday reiterated the district administration’s promise to transform the much-neglected Gandhi Mandap on Sarania hills into one of the “finest sites of tourist attraction in the city”.

The plan to renovate the mandap and its surroundings was first announced on the 135th Gandhi Jayanti observed last year.

After a half-hour extravaganza of fireworks in celebration of Republic Day at the mandap, Hazarika said the Gandhi Mandap offered a scenic view of the entire city and was visible from most localities. “Therefore, this site was chosen for the celebration,” said Hazarika.

It is the first time that a fireworks display was organised at the mandap as part of Republic Day celebrations.

The show began at 6.10 pm and charmed the entire city with its vibrant colours and display of fireworks.

Apart from Hazarika, superintendent of police (city) Hiren Chandra Nath and other district administration and police officials were present on the occasion. Hazarika and Nath even lighted a few crackers as a motley crowd looked on.

“Steps have been initiated to realise the project and we hope that the long-avoided Gandhi Mandap will soon become the getaway for both tourists and city denizens,” said Hazarika.

The mandap offers a bird’s eye view of the entire city with its undulating landscape. It was once famous for its view of sunset over the Brahmaputra. Over the years, it has, however, become notorious for harbouring thugs who indulge in snatching, looting and eve teasing.

“We plan to light up the entire length of the road from the foothills to the mandap with halogen streetlights. Mobile food caravans will also be posted along the way,” said Hazarika.

There are also plans to revamp the premises and the garden.

Hazarika said encroachment on the hills was spoiling their natural beauty and providing a safe haven to thugs.

A few years ago, miscreants had ransacked the mandap and vandalised the 20-feet statue of the Father of the Nation, the police officer added.