DHANGADHI: Dhangadhi Sub-metropolitan City has begun construction and renovation of physical infrastructures around Jakhor Lake in a bid to develop it into a tourist destination.

Infrastructures are being built around the lake situated in Dhangadhi-7 of Kailali district based on the 'masterplan' proposed by Kathmandu-based Redico Pvt Ltd. The plan was handed over to the sub-metropolis about three months ago in March.

Dhangadhi Sub-metropolis mayor Nrip Bahadur Bada has confirmed that the construction works are being carried out according to the masterplan.

Divisional Engineer Dijraj Bhatta said the construction of tracks around the lake started after calling in a tender of Rs 55 million. He said the construction project would cost an estimated Rs 240m.

The masterplan proposes the construction of an inn near the temple, a children's park, parking space and a museum on the premises of Jakhor Lake.

The plan further proposes two entrances in the enclosed area, a picnic spot between Jakhor Lake and Murphatt Lake, and space for conducting fairs and exhibitions. Likewise, a Bailey bridge would be built over narrow water space in the lake and an idol of "Lord Shiva" would be placed in the north of the lake. Furthermore, three lakes — Jakhor, Murphatta and Murphatti — would be connected with a pedestrian path corresponding to a bicycle track. It has been learned that a statue of a rooster would be kept by the side of the pedestrian path. The lakes could be used for crocodile and tortoise farming.

Kishor Thapa, who devised the construction plan, estimated that the construction of 14 proposed infrastructures would cost Rs 157,700,861. He added that the construction of an inn and a museum would cost an additional Rs 20m.

The area of 149 hectares (ha) covering the lakes — Jakhor (12.45ha), Murphatta (2.51ha) and Murphatti (1.32ha) —  situated at a distance of 4.2 kilometres from Dhangadhi downtown, has been surveyed. The lake area is popular among locals as well as tourists as more than 116 species of vegetations are found around the area.