Ranchi Picnic Spots Lack Amenities: Toilets, Lighting, and Safety Concerns for Visitors

Ranchi: Picnic spots in and around Ranchi are struggling with inadequate civic amenities. As dams and waterfalls witness a surge in footfall during the winter season, visitors are complaining of the absence of adequate toilets, proper lighting, dustbins and safe pathways.At spots like Hundru Falls, Dassam Falls, Jonha Falls and Remix Falls, picnickers complained that waste bins are either missing or insufficient, leading to littering in open areas. “There are no dustbins near the falls, so people end up throwing plastic plates and bottles everywhere. It spoils the natural beauty,” said Rakesh Kumar, who visited Hundru Falls with family.Lighting has emerged as another concern, especially in areas that remain crowded till evening.“At some places like the Tagore Hill or Kanke Dam, the lights don’t work at all, and in others, there is no maintenance. It becomes risky once it starts getting dark,” said college student Pooja Verma at Tagore Hill.Visitors also flagged the poor condition of toilets. “Even where toilets exist, they are smelly and not usable. Women and elderly people suffer the most,” said Sunita Devi, a picnicker at Dhurwa Dam.Many also pointed out the absence of clear prohibition signs and barricades near dangerous stretches. “People cross permissible limits and go very close to the water because there are no warning boards or guards to stop them,” Rakesh said.Responding to the concerns, Ranchi tourism nodal officer Shivendra Kumar said several steps are already underway. “Toilets at major locations, including waterfalls and dams, have been updated and are being cleaned regularly by staff. Tagore Hill, Kanke Dam, and few others are currently undergoing a comprehensive civic amenities upgrade,” he said.