Surajkund with five hot springs in Barkatha block will be developed as one of the most beautiful tourist centres in the country, chief minister Arjun Munda said on Monday.

On the second lap of his final Vikas Yatra in the North Chhotonagpur division, Munda, who himself took bath in one of the hot springs and offered puja at the Parvati temple, said Barkatha had tremendous potential for becoming a good tourist spot in the country thanks to its location. He said, "I have instructed the tourism department and deputy commissioner Manish Ranjan to develop this place as one of the best tourist spots." 

Surajkund is one km away from Kolkata-Delhi NH-2. Munda directed the officials to construct rest houses with all modern amenities, restaurants and casinos where tourists can halt. He also directed them to develop good gardens with plantation surrounding the complex.

He said currently the government had provided Rs 4.32 crore for the construction of road, restaurant, guest house, casino and toilets.

"The department has released Rs 4.32 crore. But funds will not be a problem as the government will provide more funds in the next financial year."

Earlier on his way to Chalkusha and Koderma, the chief minister stopped and inspected construction of road bridge on the Barai river that had given away during the last monsoon. He expressed dissatisfaction the way engineers were constructing the new bridge.

When the engineers informed him that they were constructing the new bridge on the lines of the old one, Munda reprimanded them and advised them to design the bridge in such a manner that it suits all.