RDA plans to develop tourist spot in Rajshahi

Rajshahi Development Authority (RDA) plans to develop a tourist spot on the bank of the Padma in the city.

A project proposal in this regard was submitted to the Ministry of Planning recently.

The tourist spot is expected to draw a large number of tourists from home and abroad as well as create job opportunities for many people, hope RDA officials.

Earlier, a plan was submitted to the ministry to create a tourist centre in the city but it was rejected on the plea that it might pose a threat to town protection embankment.

The authorities submitted the fresh plan styled 'Women's Estate' in May saying it would be run by women and sought Tk 9 crore for acquisition of land. The RDA will bear the remaining cost of the project.

If everything goes well, more than 200 women are expected to get jobs in the project.

The project design includes 80 housing plots, a children's park, a garden, journey-by-boat facilities, accommodation for foreign visitors and a training centre for women.

Rajshahi town protection embankment is now said to be the only spot for amusement for the city dwellers.

More than 2,000 people, mainly children and women, visit the riverbank every afternoon.

But the spot lacks proper sitting arrangement, security or any quality restaurant, said some visitors.