Visitors to Gandhi Maidan are in for a lip-smacking surprise.

Three food courts on wheels will start rolling from August 16, Patna divisional commissioner Anand Kishor, who heads the committee looking after the ground's maintenance, security and beautification, said on Monday.

The committee has earmarked 3,600sqft in the Maidan's eastern part - in front of Udyog Bhavan - for the food courts.

"Last week, a trial run was conducted and it was successful. So we decided to dedicate three food courts to the people. It will become functional from August 16," Kishor said.

The food courts will come up in front of Kargil Chowk between gate numbers 6, 7 and 8. Tenders were floated to set up this facility and the bidding process was concluded on June 6 this year. The tender was given to the highest bidder, Astitva Advertisement Pvt Ltd.

Kishor said: "There was no proper food joint at the ground and we came up with idea to open the food courts to develop the ground as one of most attractive locations in the city. Residents will be able to enjoy hygienic food and it will serve the purpose of an enjoyment park."

He said food inspectors will make regular visits to maintain hygiene at the food courts. "I will make random inspections of the food court as the purpose is to provide hygienic food at reasonable rates," added Kishor.

The food court will serve a wide range of cuisine - from Bihari to continental to South Indian, Punjabi, Gujarati, Maharashtrian and Chinese. Each van will have around 10 cooks.

One food court will cater to at least 50 people, said Sheela Tiwari, irector of Astitva Advertisement Pvt Ltd.

"There will be proper seating arrangements with tables and chairs. The kitchens will be inside the van. It will be open from 6am and would close at 9.30pm. After closing, the van will come out of the ground," Tiwari added.

An estimated 5,000 people visit the Maidan daily and the number goes up in case of a programme or an event.

"The famous taash and ahuna mutton of Champaran will be prepared by a cook from Champaran; similarly chura ghughni of Kesaria will be prepared by a chef from Kesaria; a fish recipe from Dharbhanga will be included and the famous litti chokha will be available too," Tiwari said.

She also said energy drinks will be available at the food court for morning walkers.

Residents seemed happy with the plan.

"When we visit Gandhi Maidan, there is hardly any option for good food except chaat, bhelpuri, gol gappa and batatapuri which are not hygienic," said Bakarganj resident Akhilesh Kumar. "If food courts are opened, it will be great for regular visitors."