The Punjab government is set to construct a glass bridge over the Nangal Dam lake in a bid to boost tourism and enhance the recreational appeal of the region. Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann will lay the foundation stone of the project on March 31 during his visit to Nangal.
The proposed project, estimated to cost around Rs 10 crore, is being positioned as the first of its kind in the state. Planned over the lake, the glass bridge is expected to emerge as a major tourist attraction and elevate the profile of Nangal and adjoining areas on Punjab’s tourism map.
Sources said the project aims to attract visitors not only from across Punjab but also from neighbouring states by offering a unique vantage point to experience the scenic beauty of the Sutlej River and the Nangal Dam lake.
Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains, who represents the Anandpur Sahib constituency, confirmed that the Chief Minister will formally launch the project with the foundation stone ceremony. Describing it as an ambitious initiative, Bains said the government is focusing on promoting tourism through innovative infrastructure.
The glass bridge will be developed at Sutlej Park in Nangal, located along the banks of the Nangal Dam lake, with the aim of offering a distinctive experience to visitors while drawing more footfall to the region.
The project forms part of the state government’s broader strategy to tap the tourism potential of lesser explored destinations. Nangal, given its scenic surroundings and proximity to Himachal Pradesh, has long been viewed as an area with untapped tourism opportunities.
Officials believe the project could also boost the local economy by generating employment and supporting allied sectors such as hospitality and transport.
However, the project is likely to face regulatory hurdles before construction begins. As per sources, mandatory clearances will be required from the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change since the proposed site falls within a notified wildlife sanctuary and wetland area.
Environmental norms governing ecologically sensitive zones mandate strict scrutiny before any development activity is permitted. The Nangal Dam lake and its surrounding ecosystem are considered important from a biodiversity perspective, and any construction will have to comply with central environmental guidelines.
Officials indicated that the process to seek necessary approvals will be initiated soon, noting that no work can begin without clearance from the Union environment ministry due to the protected status of the area.
Despite procedural requirements, the announcement has generated interest among residents and tourism stakeholders, who view the project as a potential catalyst for the region’s development. The foundation stone laying is expected to mark the formal start of the project, subject to environmental approvals.