PWD plans 200 ft Watch Tower at Seminary Hills

 

 

 

THE Public Works Department (PWD) is planning to build a 200 feet high Watch Tower in Seminary Hills that promises to redefine Nagpur skyline and offer a breathtaking view of the city. The ambitious project, though at a conceptual level, once completed will serve as a prominent landmark for citizens and tourists alike. Sharing primary details of the project with ‘The Hitavada’, officials of the Executive Engineer PWD Division No 1 stated that the exact location of the viewing gallery is not yet finalised.

 

“We are eyeing a suitable location around Bal Udyan, Seminary Hills that will give a panoramic view of the green cover and city’s skyline. Once the detailed project report (DPR) is ready, we will send it to District Planning and Development Committee (DPDC) for approval of funds,” an official said. The PWD has currently undertaken work to build walking tracks, toilets and lawns in Bal Udyan. “Our aim is to develop the area where people can come together to socialise and enjoy the sight of city. The viewing gallery can also be used to host cultural events, art exhibition and educational programmes and serve as a prominent center of learning,” the official stated. For tourists, the viewing gallery will serve as one of the top attractions as it will offer a breathtaking view of the city.

 

The design of the viewing gallery is not finalised but the PWD is planning a steel-concrete structure that will easily gel with the nearby environment. “Since the land comes under Forest Department, sustainability will be a key factor for consideration,” mentioned the official. If officials are to be believed, the viewing gallery project has been met with optimism and business opportunity but there are concerns that need to be addressed. Considering the green cover of Seminary Hills, the environmental impact and possible disruption to wildlife and plants are causes of concern. Already, the Futala Fountain Project that was started with much fanfare has hit a roadblock due to environment concerns. While the new project sparks immense promise for the city both in terms of leisure and tourist attraction, a careful planning considering the locals, environmentalists and other stakeholders would be the key to move in the right direction, the officials felt.