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From Saturday, you will be able to enjoy boating in the picturesque Mannu Palla lake here. A number of other facilities too are expected to be introduced at the 100-acre lake area.

Of the lake area, 55 acres is filled with water. A small half-acre man-made island with chirping birds on the trees there adds to the beauty of the lake.

Boats being readied at Mannu Palla lake in Manipal on Friday.

The introduction of boating is aimed at attracting not just the local people but also tourists from other places.

The boating facilities made available are pedal boating, row boating, water scooter, and a family boat.

The pedal boat, row boat and water scooter would be available at Rs. 50 per head per for 30 minutes. The boating facility will be available from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily throughout the week. There is no entry fee.

Twelve boats are now available for the enthusiasts and 12 more will join the fleet soon. A private agency has bagged the five-year tender floated for providing boating and other facilities.

“Wearing life jacket is compulsory for every person. We have kept a rescue boat and expert swimmers on the standby if there is any emergency. If there are heavy rains we will stop the boating facility. Safety is our primary concern,” said Nagaraj Reddy, owner of the private agency.

While the lake has water till March, later the water level declines. After water level recedes, only pedal boat facilities will be available.

Besides boating, about 9,000 flowers of various varieties would be grown in the 10-feet wide area along the 2.5-km walking track around the Lake. Cultural and other events will be promoted at the amphitheatre at the Lake. A restaurant too will come up here.

Organic farming of vegetables will be grown in a small open area near the lake. Cricket and other matches will be promoted at ground near the lake. “We want to develop a one-day picnic package for students from rural areas,” Mr. Reddy said.

A long term package being though of is a tour of the Manna Palla Lake and its facilities, the nearby planetarium and temples and a visit to the heritage village.

The private agency has to pay Rs. 2.3 lakh every year to the authorities for using these facilities.

Those interested in enjoying boat rides may call 9964667766.