<p>The majestic Jog Falls is set to get a much-needed makeover as officials are planning a host of projects, including a 400-metre ropeway and boating facility to Hebbail's Padmavathi temple.</p>.<p>More than four years after the redevelopment talks began, the Karnataka Power Corporation Limited (KPCL) has begun the process to commission various works to make the place a world-class tourist site.</p>.<p>As part of the makeover, the current viewing deck will be upgraded and another one will be added. An amphitheatre for cultural events, a science park to keep the children engaged and amenities like cafeteria and toilets will be provided at the site.</p>.<p>Sources in KPCL said the project is the brainchild of Shivamogga MP B Y Raghavendra and includes a religious aspect.</p>.<p>Raghavendra didn't respond to calls and messages but the source said the MP's role was instrumental in the Rs 165-crore project getting the necessary approvals.</p>.<p>"The project involves starting a boating facility from Jungle Lodges to Vadanbailu Padmavathi Temple in Hebbail village. At present, a tourist has to take permission from KPCL to travel to the temple via Kargal, a distance of 15 km. The boat journey will have prior approval and will cut the distance and time while providing an unique experience," the source said.</p>.<p>KPCL has set the second quarter of 2023 as the deadline for the project, which will also involve setting up a bronze statue of Sharavathi at the site. Officials are also looking to rebuild the swimming pool which was dismantled about six years ago.</p>.<p>"The ropeway from PWD guest house connecting the opposite hill will be the major attraction as it puts the tourist in a central point above the valley, giving an uninhibited view of the falls," an official told DH.</p>
<p>The majestic Jog Falls is set to get a much-needed makeover as officials are planning a host of projects, including a 400-metre ropeway and boating facility to Hebbail's Padmavathi temple.</p>.<p>More than four years after the redevelopment talks began, the Karnataka Power Corporation Limited (KPCL) has begun the process to commission various works to make the place a world-class tourist site.</p>.<p>As part of the makeover, the current viewing deck will be upgraded and another one will be added. An amphitheatre for cultural events, a science park to keep the children engaged and amenities like cafeteria and toilets will be provided at the site.</p>.<p>Sources in KPCL said the project is the brainchild of Shivamogga MP B Y Raghavendra and includes a religious aspect.</p>.<p>Raghavendra didn't respond to calls and messages but the source said the MP's role was instrumental in the Rs 165-crore project getting the necessary approvals.</p>.<p>"The project involves starting a boating facility from Jungle Lodges to Vadanbailu Padmavathi Temple in Hebbail village. At present, a tourist has to take permission from KPCL to travel to the temple via Kargal, a distance of 15 km. The boat journey will have prior approval and will cut the distance and time while providing an unique experience," the source said.</p>.<p>KPCL has set the second quarter of 2023 as the deadline for the project, which will also involve setting up a bronze statue of Sharavathi at the site. Officials are also looking to rebuild the swimming pool which was dismantled about six years ago.</p>.<p>"The ropeway from PWD guest house connecting the opposite hill will be the major attraction as it puts the tourist in a central point above the valley, giving an uninhibited view of the falls," an official told DH.</p>