Shillong’s charm, the popular Ward’s Lake will soon undergo a major transformation with Rs 18 crore.
Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh made this announcement today.
Also known as Pollock’s Lake-an artificial water body was constructed in 1893-1894 under the Chief Commissionership of Sir William Erskine Ward. The place is one of the State’s major tourist attraction because of its lush garden with flower beds and cobble-stone footpaths and the iconic wooden white bridge.
The lake, which is currently under the jurisdiction of the Forest and Environment Department, will now be retransferred to the Tourism Department to unlock its full potential, the minister said.
One of the key changes, Lyngdoh noted, will be the extension of closing hours. He said the closure will no longer be at 5 pm— it will be extended to 10 pm. “This will create more opportunities for leisure and entertainment, especially for visitors to Shillong who often complain about the lack of evening activities. It will also allow government employees and residents more time for walks and physical exercise,” he added.
Lyngdoh informed that a major highlight of the revamp will be the introduction of a sound-and-light show, aimed at increasing the entertainment quotient of the lake and attracting more visitors. He also said that provisions for pedestrian and motorist movement will also be enhanced, anticipating a significant rise in footfall. “This is part of the sanctioned amount. We will certainly expand further, as we expect the number of visitors to more than double,” he added.
