Ramsagar boating club in Sambalpur. Telegraph picture

Sambalpur April 28: The civic body here has taken steps to give the Ramsagar boating club a facelift.

“Rs 25 lakh has been sanctioned for a park in the city. The fund has been sanctioned to develop a new park near any water body. But, we have decided to spend it to renovate the Ramsagar boating club. We have requested the government to allow us to do so. I have also discussed this matter with higher officials of the urban development department. They have agreed to our proposal,” said chairperson of Sambalpur Municipality Kalpana Sahu.

“The Ram Sagar boating club in Sambalpur is an asset to the city. If the fund is spent on the development of the boating club, the place will regain its attraction. The number of visitors to the club will also increase,” said Kalpana

The boating club was developed in 2003. The Ramsagar pond, one of the oldest in the city, is located at the heart of the city. But the boating club, which was once a favourite hangout for local residents, has been lying in neglect for a long time.

“Earlier, hundreds of people visited the place every day. But, the beautiful place lost its attraction because of the negligence and apathy of the authorities concerned. People have now stopped visiting this place and it has become a haven for goons,” said Jasbant Naik, a local resident.

“I am happy that the civic body is thinking of renovating the boating club. If the authorities take steps to renovate the boating club, the place will regain its charm,” said Naik.

“This is really a welcome move. The civic body should renovate the boating club as soon as possible,” said Arbind Seth, another local resident.

“The civic body should take steps to maintain all recreational places in the city. Steps should also be taken to develop more recreation spots,” said Seth.