Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann inaugurated the ₹2.80 crore Saleran Dam Eco-Tourism Project in Hoshiarpur, aiming to create large-scale employment.
The project features modern eco-huts and an amphitheater, projected to generate ₹18 lakh in annual revenue while rivaling Himachal’s tourism hubs.
In a strategic move to redefine the state’s economic landscape, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann inaugurated the Saleran Dam Eco-Tourism Project in Hoshiarpur this Sunday. Developed at a cost of ₹2.80 crore, the project is hailed as a milestone on Punjab’s tourism map. CM Mann emphasized that the initiative is designed to harness the natural beauty of the Kandi region, transforming it into a premier destination that provides sustainable livelihood opportunities for local youth. By integrating modern amenities with ecological preservation, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government aims to position Punjab as a global competitor in the eco-tourism sector, moving beyond traditional religious circuits.
Historically, Punjab’s tourism potential remained largely restricted to religious pilgrimage sites, leaving its diverse natural landscapes like the Kandi region neglected. Previous administrations overlooked these areas, but the current government has initiated a comprehensive revival strategy. This includes the renovation of 52 to 75 dilapidated government rest houses, which now generate nearly ₹1 crore in monthly rental revenue.
The Saleran Dam project is a centerpiece of this broader vision. By focusing on niche markets such as film shooting and destination weddings, the government is tapping into high-revenue sectors that were previously dominated by neighboring Himachal Pradesh. This shift represents a transition toward a “soft power” economy, utilizing water bodies and forest reserves to attract international interest and diversify the state’s revenue streams away from purely agrarian dependency.
Bhagwant Mann (Chief Minister, Punjab): “Our government is committed to placing Punjab on the international tourism map. The Saleran Dam project is not just a scenic spot; it is a catalyst for the all-round economic development of Hoshiarpur, providing direct employment to our youth and preventing migration.”
Tourism Department Official: “We have meticulously designed this site with a 16,000 square foot children’s playground, modern eco-huts, and an 80-capacity cafeteria. It offers a unique experience of living amidst nature without sacrificing urban comforts.”
Economic Analyst: “Revitalizing state assets and building eco-friendly infrastructure creates a permanent revenue source. This project is expected to yield ₹18 lakh annually, signaling a healthy return on investment for the state exchequer.”
Local Resident (Hoshiarpur): “For years, we had to leave our homes to find work. Now, with films being shot here and weddings being planned at the dam, local small businesses and vendors will finally see a steady income.”
The Saleran Dam project is already showing tangible results on the ground. The 16,000-square-foot playground and amphitheater have turned the site into a primary picnic spot for families across the district. The four newly constructed eco-huts are expected to foster a “homestay” culture, encouraging tourists to spend more time in the rural hinterlands.
Furthermore, the government has integrated this with welfare schemes, such as the ₹1,300 crore investment in horticulture via the Japanese agency JICA. By providing economic alternatives and a vibrant social environment, the project also serves as a constructive distraction for the youth, aligning with the “Rangla Punjab” mission to combat social issues through empowerment.
The initiative strikes a balance between ‘Economy and Ecology.’ By promoting the site for the film industry, Punjab is enhancing its cultural footprint. Experts suggest that if infrastructure improvements continue at this pace, Hoshiarpur could emerge as a major international hub within five years.
Facility Description
Total Cost: ₹2.80 Crore
Revenue Target: ₹18 Lakh per annum
Key Attractions: 16,000 sq. ft. Playground, Eco-Huts, Amphitheater, Cafeteria
Economic Benefit: Direct & Indirect employment for local youth
