The Himachal Pradesh government is planning to revamp the British-era ice-skating rink in Shimla at a cost of Rs 20.22 crore to boost tourism in the hill state, officials said on Saturday.
Recognised as Asia’s oldest and largest natural ice-skating rink, it was established in 1920. Located in the Lakkar Bazar area, the rink has been a major tourist attraction for decades and has inspired thousands of young ice skaters.
The Shimla Ice-Skating Rink will now be developed into a modern and state-of-the-art facility at an estimated cost of Rs 20.22 crore, a government spokesperson said in a statement issued here.
Out of the total cost, Rs 2.81 crore will be spent on building a new Club House. About Rs 16.09 crore will go towards upgrading the rink’s infrastructure. Another Rs 1.21 crore will be used for constructing a store, a souvenir shop and other basic amenities. The official added that Rs 11.20 lakh will be spent on demolishing the old Club House Buildings I and II, along with the servant residence.
The redevelopment project aims to provide tourists with a better and world-class experience. It also seeks to promote winter sports in the region, the spokesperson said. Under the plan, old and outdated structures, including the old Club House buildings and the servant residence, will be dismantled to make way for the new development, he added.
The upgraded Shimla Ice-Skating Rink is also expected to host national and international events. This will help place Shimla prominently on the sports map.
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