Delhi’s Purana Quila to reintroduce boating in January 2025 after long hiatus

The historic Purana Quila, dating back to the 16th century, is preparing to reintroduce boating, with the activity expected to begin in January 2025, providing a new and exciting experience for both Delhiites and tourists.

A senior official from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) in Delhi revealed that the Sabhyata Foundation, part of the Dalmia Bharat Group, had submitted a proposal to bring back boating at Purana Quila.

“The proposal, which was submitted some time ago, has been approved, and a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed,” the official stated.

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He further added, “The proposal is now in its final stages, and if all goes as planned, we expect the boating facility to be operational by next month. It will be a much-needed New Year gift for visitors.”

A representative from the Sabhyata Foundation also confirmed that a vendor has been finalised to conduct the boating activity. The Foundation, which has adopted the monument for its upkeep, is responsible for maintaining the site.

Sources have revealed that initially, ten boats will be introduced, with plans to add ten more later. “Currently, we are in the process of cleaning the lake,” the official explained.

Purana Quila, with its historic charm, has served as the backdrop for several Bollywood blockbusters, including Shah Rukh Khan’s Chak De! India, Kangana Ranaut’s Tanu Weds Manu Returns, and Jannat 2.

In Tanu Weds Manu Returns, actors Kangana Ranaut and R Madhavan were seen boating in the lake during a memorable song sequence.

As part of its Adopt A Heritage 2.0 program, the Sabhyata Foundation has taken responsibility for the maintenance of several significant monuments, including Balban’s Tomb, Jamali Kamali Mosque, Rajon ki Baoli, and Gandhak ki Baoli in Mehrauli Archaeological Park, along with Purana Quila, Humayun’s Tomb, and Safdarjung Tomb.

It’s worth noting that boating at Purana Quila Lake had been discontinued in 2016.

Earlier, the Delhi Tourism Department had urged the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to allow the restart of boating in the lake at Purana Quila, saying it would add attraction to the city and bring tourists to the destination.

“We have sent multiple requests to ASI to allow its restart, but they have not responded till date,” the official said.

Delhi Tourism has offered recreational boating facilities at the Purana Quila Lake since 1991. Delhi Tourism and the ASI entered into an agreement in 2007 after the lake was transferred to ASI from the Delhi Development Authority.

As part of the agreement, Delhi Tourism was paying 12.5 % of the gross revenue received from boating to the ASI on an annual basis, officials said.

In 2016, the lake dried up for some time due to the negligence of authorities. Later, it was restored, but boating continued to remain suspended. However, it will finally see the light of day.

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An ASI official from the Delhi government, while speaking on the condition of anonymity, said that Delhi Tourism was responsible for maintaining the monument, including building a parking lot, toilets, and a facilitation centre.

“Since they failed to do so, the National Buildings Construction Corporation (NBCC) was assigned to take up the task. That’s why this project couldn’t move forward with them,” he said.