Stuck since 2023, govt takes steps to set up eco-retreat in Netarhat

Ranchi: The Hemant Soren-led govt hopes to get third-time lucky in its plan of hosting a eco-retreat in the Netarhat hills of Latehar in the present winter season. Envisaged in 2023, the retreat aims to draw tourists to Netarhat and establish it as a popular destination.Though the officials had begun preparing for this year in late 2024, the implementation of the model code of conduct due to the state elections meant there were delays in obtaining necessary approvals. In the 2024 winter, the department did not find enough takers for the project during its tender process. In 2023, the project was shelved as senior officials suggested changes to the original proposal of setting up only residential tents. On January 13, the state tourism department floated a request for proposal (RFP) inviting interested bidders for setting up, managing facilities and operating the eco-retreat. A total of 50 luxury tents, complete with all amenities, are to be set up at Netarhat for 30 days. There would also be a restaurant-cum-bar, an air-conditioned reception area, a conference facility, and an open area for performances. The suites have been categorised as one Durbari luxury suite, two Rajwadi luxury suites, 10 premium swiss cottage tents, 27 deluxe swiss cottage tents, and 10 transparent dome tents. Speaking to TOI, tourism secretary Manoj Kumar said, "The eco retreat will spread over an eight-acre plot, whose ownership is with local raiyyats, on rental basis in the hills. Civil construction work such as installing water supply and other amenities had been done last year. We want to turn this into an annual event which will draw tourists from all parts of the country." However, with winter likely on the wane, it will be a touch and go for the department as it looks to complete the tendering process and hire an agency by January end. "Given that winter will be on the wane within a few weeks, we are pushing for the project from February 15 to March 15," he said."If we can finalise an agency in the first round of bidding and they assure us of setting up the infrastructure by mid February, we will move ahead as the weather will change after that," Kumar added. The bidding for the Rs 7cr project is scheduled for January 29.