Four city heritage sites to turn into destination tourism spots

Lucknow: At least four heritage sites of Lucknow may soon be developed into destination tourism hotspot as part of ‘tourism renaissance plan’ of state government. For this, the Uttar Pradesh tourism department has invited bidders for its Heritage Property Restoration Initiative on October 4. In August this year, the department had unveiled the initiative under which heritage sites would be converted into five-star hotels. In line with that, the department on Thursday announced to hold a pre-bid event on October 4. “Our aim is to breathe new life into these historic properties and showcase the cultural heritage of UP to the world. By welcoming private partners, we hope to create a win-win situation, where these heritage sites are restored to their former glory and tourism flourishes,” said tourism minister Jaiveer Singh. The initiative will invite proposals for reuse of nine heritage properties on PPP basis. Of these nine sites, at least four are in Lucknow. These include Chhatar Manzil, Kothi Gulistan-E-Eram, Kothi Darshan Vilas and Kothi Roshan-Ud-Daula.Besides, Shukla Talab and Tikait Rai Baradari in Kanpur, Barua Sagar Fort in Jhansi, Chunar Fort in Mirzapur and Barsana Jal Mahal in Mathura are also on the list. According to the department, the plan includes creation of hotels and resorts, museums, shilpgram, exhibition centres, restaurants and banquets, cultural centres, wedding destinations and more.Officials said the department has not reserved any upfront premium from the concessionaire. They also stressed that the selection process will hinge on quality and cost based selection (QCBS) methodology. These properties will be offered on a long-term lease for 30 years, extendable twice for an additional 30-year period to a maximum of 90 years. “The bid parameter shall be the annual concession fee which the concessionaire will be responsible for paying. Besides, the minimum reserve price for annual concession fee has been kept at Rs 1 lakh. Also, the bidder will be required to share 1% of the gross revenue from the property. A rigorous selection process will be employed, with 80% weightage given to the technical proposal and 20% to the financial one,” said a senior official at UP tourism department.

Remove encroachment from heritage sites in 2 weeks: HC

The Lucknow bench of Allahabad High Court has ordered the state government and Lucknow Municipal Corporation officials to clear encroachments from heritage sites and submit a report on actions taken within two weeks. The court's directive comes after a decade-old committee was revived to find solutions to encroachment around protected monuments. The committee has identified over 50 encroachments in six sites, but tangible results are yet to be seen. Heritage activists have applauded the court's order and hope for prompt action from the administration.

Three Hoysala-era temples now world heritage sites

The ancient Hoysala temples of Belur, Halebeedu, and Somanathpura in Karnataka, India, have been recognized as new UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These temples, known for their intricate stone carvings and unique architecture, join the list of India's 42 world heritage sites. While concerns were raised about the expansion of the buffer area around the temples, the committee acknowledged their cultural significance and approved their inclusion. India has committed to undertaking restoration and management works for the temples and will submit an action plan for review by December 2024.

UNESCO approves Hoysala Temples of Karnataka as new World Heritage Sites

The 12th century Hoysala era temples of Belur, Halebidu, and Somanathapura in Karnataka have been recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This makes them the 42nd site in India and the fourth site in Karnataka to receive this designation. The temples, known as the Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysals, are renowned for their unique architectural marvels and intricate stone carvings. The temples have been on UNESCO's tentative list since 2014. This recognition is considered a proud moment for Karnataka and its rich heritage and culture.