Sambalpur, Oct. 28: The Ramsagar boating club, under the aegis of the municipal corporation here, will shortly get a new lease of life.

The boating club, which is located in the heart of the city, will get a makeover with funds from the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (Amrut) scheme.

Deputy commissioner of Sambalpur Municipal Corporation Sudhansu Bhoi said: "A city-based firm is executing the work of the boating club."

"Nearly Rs 1.38 crore will be spent on the renovation and restoration work. According to the proposal, the water body will be de-silted, pathways around the tank constructed, the boundary wall will be repaired and decorative lights and playing equipment for children will be installed. New paddle boats will be procured after the renovation of the tank is complete. The work will be complete in 18 months' time," said Bhoi.

The civic body developed the club at the Ramsagar pond in 2003 and it had become a major recreational destination within the city limits. Fifteen paddle boats were provided for visitors. A larger number of people also visiting the place every evening to spend a peaceful time. However, the place lost its attraction in the course of time due to lack of maintenance.

At present, the water body is filled with filth. The boats are lying defunct. One can also see garbage dumped all along the boundary wall of the tank.

The housing and urban development department of the state government had sanctioned Rs 25 lakh for the renovation of the Ramsagar boating club in 2013.

But the money could not be utilised because it was insufficient to carry out the renovation work. The residents of the city have welcomed the decision to renovate the boating club.

"The Ramsagar boating club is an asset of Sambalpur. Once renovated, the residents will get a recreational place to unwind," said Chinmaya Mohapatra, a resident of the city.