Korba: The historic Manikpur Pokhri, located in the heart of Korba city, is poised to transform into a vibrant tourism and entertainment destination under a joint initiative by the district administration and South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL). The ambitious project, whose budget has been substantially revised upward from the earlier estimate of ₹11 crore to ₹45 crore, is expected to see construction begin in January of the coming year.
Once an operational open-cast coal mine, Manikpur Pokhri holds significant historical importance for the district. Mining operations began in 1966 with technical assistance from the Soviet Union across approximately 23 acres. After nearly 24 years of continuous extraction, the mine reached a depth of about 100 metres when a massive groundwater source suddenly erupted. The inflow proved too powerful for the pumping systems of the time, leading to the flooding and eventual closure of that section of the mine in 1990-91. Today, the site has evolved into a sprawling natural lake roughly one kilometre long and 300 metres wide, its waters often appearing a striking green from a distance.
The development plan for Manikpur Pokhri had remained stalled for years after initial efforts during the tenure of then-Collector Ranu Sahu. Following a site inspection after assuming charge, Collector Kunal Dudawat has prioritised the long-pending proposal and pushed it forward. Officials note that the project aligns with SECL’s mine closure plan and coincides with proposed expansion of the Manikpur mining operations, for which an environmental public hearing was recently conducted.
Once completed, the redeveloped site is expected to offer a wide range of attractions, including a zipline, climbing and rappelling facilities, a roller rider, musical fountain, children’s park and play zone, family chowpati, floating restaurant, modern cafeteria, selfie zones, and landscaped walkways. Authorities believe the project will not only provide city residents with a convenient leisure destination but also add a green and recreational dimension to Korba’s industrial identity, while generating livelihood and self-employment opportunities for local youth.
Collector Kunal Dudawat told ETV Bharat that the development of the closed mine as a modern water body with an amusement centre and park is being undertaken under SECL’s mine closure plan. SECL has submitted a proposal costing over ₹40 crore, and the tender process is currently underway. A work order is expected to be issued within the next three months, enabling construction to commence.
The upgraded Manikpur Pokhri is set to emerge as a new landmark for both residents and visitors, bringing a long-awaited recreational space closer to the city.
