The best way to breathe easy is here Ranchi Lake to offer boat rides

The park on the banks of Ranchi Lake on Sunday. Picture by Hardeep Singh

Come November 16, Ranchi will boast another destination to unwind.

A park on the banks of Ranchi Lake, one of the most picturesque spots of the state capital, will be re-opened for the public with a new look and boating facilities.

Kokar-based Chatterjee International, which won the Ranchi Municipal Corporation’s (RMC) bid to give the square a much-needed facelift, is happy with the outcome.

“We wanted to re-open the park during Durga Puja but were forced to postpone it due to Cyclone Phailin, which was followed by incessant rain till Diwali. The ground had become muddy and slushy,” Gautam Chatterjee, proprietor of Chatterjee International, told The Telegraph:

Now that the greens have been spruced up and the weather is better, it seems to be the perfect time to welcome visitors.

Revamped at a cost of around Rs 70 lakh, the park is situated on the eastern side of the water body, adjacent to Old Commissioner’s Compound.

The renovated square, spread over 7,000sqft, will boast of boating facilities, a children’s corner, cafeteria, conference hall and an open space for hosting birthday parties and wedding receptions.

“The space earmarked for functions will be known as Shadi Ghar,” said Chatterjee, adding that the ambience was perfect for holding such gatherings.

The agency is currently working out the modalities and charges for renting out the conference hall and party arena. The entry fees and boating charges have, however, been fixed.

One will have to shell out Rs 20 for entering the park. A one-hour ride in the paddle boat will come at Rs 40 per head and for the motor boat, the agency will charge Rs 50 per person.

The revenue collected will be used by Chatterjee International to maintain the park and pay salaries to the staff.

The private keepers have hired two drivers for the motor boats, 12 gardeners and a manager.

What is the park’s USP?

“Well, the boating of course,” said Chatterjee. “And just like Jubilee Park in Jamshedpur, joggers and yoga enthusiasts can also use the greens without any entry ticket from 5.30am.”