Mangal Talab makeover begins; project to feature cultural plaza, jogging track

Patna: The historic ‘Mangal Talab’, jointly being renovated by the tourism department and the urban development and housing department, at par with Adalatganj Talab near Beerchand Patel Path, will cost around Rs 24 crore. The project promises to create a dynamic public space that celebrates heritage, fosters community engagement, and enhances recreational opportunities, said an official.The renovation of this ambitious project has been divided into two phases, balancing heritage preservation with modern amenities of the pond. Phase I of the project is overseen by the Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation Limited (BSTDC) with a budget of Rs 14.05 crore and focusing on revitalising Zone 1, by restoring its cultural heritage and enriching the visitor experience. The plan includes constructing a grand entrance gate to create a welcoming atmosphere, along with spacious parking facilities and commercial shops designed to support and promote local vendors.Nand Kishore, managing director of BSTDC, said that a private agency has been engaged to execute beautification, landscaping, and infrastructure enhancements. The work under the phase I will be completed within 18 months. “The redevelopment work started a week back after the tender was issued to the selected agency,” he added.“A central plaza will serve as a lively hub for cultural gatherings. The space will also have food kiosks, local shops, and souvenir shops. The riverfront and ghat will be renovated while a jogging track will be prepared along the wall of the pond, which will elevate the area’s aesthetic and functional appeal,” he told this newspaper.According to the MD, Phase II, being developed by the Patna Municipal Corporation with Rs 9.90 crore, focuses on recreational and civic infrastructure across three zones, with a proper drainage system and pathway.Zone 2 will delight families with a dedicated children’s park, paved pathways for leisurely strolls, and a toilet block. The third zone will feature a secondary entrance gate, a beautifully landscaped entry with a place marker, and lush green zones to enhance the area’s natural charm.Meanwhile, Zone 4 will transform the adjacent city school ground with levelling, walking tracks, benches, construction of decorative railings, a boundary wall, and street lighting to ensure safety and accessibility after dark.The pond will be illuminated with streetlamps and high-mast light. A musical fountain with colourful light has already been installed earlier at the centre of the pond by the tourism department, based on the theme of Patna Sahib Gurdwara and Guru Gobind Singh.