Water Sports Activities Resume in Himachal's Bilaspur After Rain Wreaked Havoc

Water sports activities at Gobind Sagar Lake in Himachal Pradesh's Bilaspur district resumed on Tuesday, following a monsoon-induced halt that caused widespread havoc in the region. The reservoir, a key attraction amid the Himalayan foothills, had suspended operations due to heavy rains that triggered flash floods, landslides, and infrastructure damage across the state earlier this summer. With weather conditions now stabilizing, the district administration has greenlit cruises, banana rides, speedboats, water scooters, and other aquatic adventures, signaling a boost to local tourism recovery efforts.

Bilaspur Deputy Commissioner Rahul Kumar personally tested the speedboat and cruise rides, expressing enthusiasm about their seamless operations. "The experiences were thrilling and safe, reflecting our commitment to high standards," Kumar stated in an official release. The resumption comes after assessments confirmed the lake's safety, with Gobind Sagar—formed by the Bhakra Dam on the Sutlej River—offering calm waters ideal for such pursuits.

The dam, a cornerstone of India's post-independence hydropower infrastructure since 1963, not only powers the nation but also supports recreational tourism, drawing visitors for its serene 168-square-kilometer expanse surrounded by forested hills.

The district administration envisions transforming Bilaspur into a premier adventure sports hub, integrating water-based activities with aero sports like paragliding to create a vibrant ecosystem. Kumar emphasized that this strategy will draw more tourists, stimulate local economies through increased footfall, and generate employment in hospitality and guiding services.

Strategically located near the Chandigarh-Manali four-lane highway, the site benefits from easy accessibility, positioning it for national and international acclaim in the coming years. Himachal Pradesh, often called the "Land of Gods," relies heavily on tourism, which contributes over 7% to its GDP, making such initiatives crucial for post-monsoon revival.

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Kumar extended a warm invitation to tourists from across India to explore Bilaspur's offerings, assuring ongoing enhancements for visitor safety and convenience. Plans include introducing additional activities like kayaking and jet skiing soon, backed by rigorous safety protocols and trained personnel.

As the state recovers from an estimated Rs 4,000 crore in monsoon damages reported in July, the lake's reopening underscores resilience, fostering sustainable tourism while preserving the fragile Himalayan ecology.

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