Work on turning scenic Patratu Dam, just a 35km drive from Ranchi, into a world-class tourist spot in a project valued at Rs 68.36 crore is picking up pace.

Blocking the water of Nalkari river, Patratu Dam is near Pithoria-Patratu valley, which offers visitors a breathtaking vista of curves, hairpin bends and green hills. Stunning sunsets can be seen from the reservoir.

To harness its tourism potential to the fullest, tourism department is ready with a detailed project report prepared by global consultancy KPMG International.

Also, four bidders had responded to the tender floated by state building corporation three months ago to undertake civil work as the first phase of the ambitious tourism development plan, under which two agencies cleared technical scrutiny.

Tourism secretary Rahul Sharma said he was expecting the building construction department to handpick an agency based on the lowest quote and inform his department. "By August-end, I am expecting them to begin groundwork," he said.

Before that, tourism department will hold a national-level trekking expedition involving NCC cadets from across the country in Patratu to create buzz about the dam.

"We will organise trekking and adventure activities after inviting NCC cadets from all parts of the country to generate buzz and awareness about Patratu Dam and its rich tourism potential," Sharma said.

The detailed project report of Patratu Dam tourism project suggested setting up guesthouses and camping zones, developing the ghats and waterfront, building a promenade and walkways, park and a play zone for children, an adventure sports complex, water complex and musical fountains.

It also suggested setting up haats from which tourists can buy souvenirs of their trip and food courts.

"It's an ambitious plan so our completion target is 2019-20," tourism secretary Sharma said. Work will be done in two phases, he added. "The first phase will encompass civil works after which we will invite experienced players to invest in adventure and recreational activities here. Once it is ready, Patratu Dam will be one of the best tourist spots in the state due to its scenic location and the convenience of being near to state capital Ranchi," Sharma said.

He added that tourism revival would explicitly change the socio-economic condition of people residing there.

Building construction department secretary K.K. Soan said a guesthouse and water sports facilities would come up at Patratu Dam soon. "These apart, we are actively working on installing Swami Vivekanand's statue at Ranchi Lake and improving tourism amenities at Hundru, Jonha and Panchghagh falls," Soan said.

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