Pune district will soon boast of another tourist destination with the state government developing a new tourist spot at Yedgaon near Narayangaon -- about 70 km from Pune. The project will be spread across 65 acre of land and will include major attractions like water sports, boating, gardens, temple tour, etc. Besides, the government has also planned to provide lodging facilities for tourists for overnight stay.

The proposal of the project, which is likely to cost Rs 96.92 crore, is with the state tourism department for administrative approval. The proposal was submitted by the Pune district administration to the state government. 

The government has asked the irrigation department to implement the project. The state government has constituted a committee to look into issues like the appointment of architecture consultant for the project.

An official from the irrigation department, who is also a member of the steering committee appointed for project implementation said, "The site will include development of attractive and entertaining tourism facilities and provision of basic infrastructures like approach roads, internal roads, drinking water facilities and a communication centre."

Besides, it will also include construction of a memorial to Yashwantrao Chavan, first chief minister of the state, said an official.

The government at present has initiated steps to conduct a detailed survey of the entire area which includes detailed mapping of the land. An official from the irrigation department said that mapping will help during execution of the project.

The department of tourism has approved Rs1.50 crore for the project in the year 2010-11. The fund is being used to enhance existing facilities in Yedgaon area. A sum of Rs 50 lakh has been released so far, according to an official.

TOI