Renovation of Badkhal Lake in Faridabad is all set for a stunning transformation inspired by the grand makeover of Ayodhya. The Haryana government has announced a ₹30 crore renovation plan that will give this historic lake a new life – one modeled after the world-class development seen around the Ram Mandir. The aim is simple but ambitious: to turn Renovation of Badkhal Lake into a flagship tourist destination for Delhi-NCR, blending tradition, nature, and modern design just like Ayodhya did.
The connection with Ayodhya goes beyond inspiration. The same agency that successfully revamped Ayodhya during the Ram Mandir development has been entrusted with Badkhal’s revival. In Ayodhya, the transformation included massive infrastructure upgrades such as the 13-kilometer-long Ram Path corridor with beautiful paving, landscaping, and efficient drainage systems – all completed before the temple’s consecration. The makeover also rejuvenated ancient ghats, widened streets, improved building facades, and added modern facilities like food courts and parking areas, all while preserving the city’s spiritual charm. Now, the Haryana government hopes to replicate that same model in Faridabad.
Ayodhya-Style Renovation of Badkhal Lake – A ₹30 Crore Makeover
Renovation of Badkhal Lake, the ₹30 crore project will focus on both infrastructure and beautification. Wide, paved roads and scenic walking paths will make the lake more accessible. Lifts will be installed to help elderly visitors and those with disabilities reach different levels easily. Footover bridges will connect various areas around the lake, offering panoramic views of the water and the surrounding Aravalli Hills. Decorative staircases, tiled floors, artistic wall paintings, sculptures, and landscaped gardens will add aesthetic appeal. In the evenings, advanced lighting systems will illuminate the entire area, creating a peaceful yet vibrant atmosphere for visitors.
This beautification plan is just one phase of the much larger Smart City Mission project that has been reshaping Faridabad. Initially estimated at ₹79 crore, the total project cost has now touched nearly ₹100 crore. The broader development includes a 10 MLD sewage treatment plant that pumps about five million liters of treated water daily into the 42-acre lake — filling it for the first time in over twenty years. Around 85 percent of the marina and lakefront development is complete, smart surface parking is nearly finished, and food courts along with multi-level decks are being built to serve tourists once the area opens fully.
The project also has a strong ecological focus. A massive 1,200-acre eco-restoration plan around the lake’s catchment area will plant more than 2.25 lakh native trees and shrubs in the Aravalli forests, turning Badkhal into a biodiversity hotspot. This will not only make the area greener but also attract migratory birds and support local wildlife.
As of October 2025, the restoration work at Renovation of Badkhal Lake stands around 80–85 percent complete. Smart parking is 82 percent ready, while the marina is expected to be finished by December 2025. The main challenge now is the widespread growth of water hyacinth — an invasive aquatic weed that has covered most of the lake’s surface. The Municipal Corporation of Faridabad began mechanical removal in August 2025 and expects the cleanup to finish by November. Once the water is clear and the beautification is complete, the lake will be inaugurated by Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini.
This project has faced several delays over the years, with missed deadlines since 2020. Despite this, the progress now appears steady. About 86 percent of the ₹1,000 crore Smart City budget has been spent, with Renovation of Badkhal Lake standing as one of its final key components.
Looking ahead, the Haryana government envisions Renovation of Badkhal Lake as a tourism hub comparable to Ayodhya. The plan includes bringing back the weekly Sunday markets that once thrived here, integrating the lake with nearby attractions like Surajkund and Damdama Lake to form an interconnected tourism circuit, and introducing water-based adventure activities such as boating, kayaking, and canoeing. The authorities also plan to create cultural spaces for local festivals, performances, and fairs, ensuring that the lake remains lively throughout the year.
Just like Ayodhya’s redevelopment, the Renovation of Badkhal Lake project emphasizes timely completion, community involvement, and sustainable design. Local residents will be encouraged to participate as vendors and service providers, creating a sense of ownership and ensuring the site’s long-term upkeep. The goal is to combine heritage and modernity seamlessly, creating a space that feels both rooted in tradition and ready for the future.
Once the work is complete, tourists can expect a well-planned and accessible destination. Smooth pathways, lifts, and ramps will make it easy for everyone to explore. Footover bridges will provide breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding hills. During evenings, decorative lighting and possibly even the upcoming musical fountain and laser show will add charm. Sculptures, landscaped gardens, and clean walkways will make the area a perfect spot for family outings and social gatherings.
Beyond recreation, Renovation of Badkhal Lake revival also carries ecological and cultural value. The restored biodiversity will attract nature lovers, bird watchers, and photographers. The regular fairs, performances, and weekend markets will bring the community together, blending entertainment with local heritage.
Located just 32 kilometers from Delhi and easily accessible via NH-2 and the Badarpur Border metro station, Renovation of Badkhal Lake has all the ingredients to become NCR’s next big weekend escape. Once fully operational, it will join the likes of Surajkund, known for its world-famous crafts fair, and Damdama Lake, a popular adventure spot, forming a complete tourism circuit in the Aravalli region.
If all goes according to plan, the project should be completed by December 2025, and the lake could open to visitors in early 2026. The ₹30 crore Ayodhya-style beautification will be the final touch that ties the entire development together.
Renovation of Badkhal Lake’s transformation is more than a facelift; it’s a revival of history and identity. Just like Ayodhya, it’s about honoring the past while building for the future. If executed with care and consistency, Badkhal could soon become Haryana’s answer to Ayodhya – a shining example of how heritage, ecology, and modern tourism can coexist beautifully.
