Lucknow, Dec. 16 -- The Uttar Pradesh Eco Tourism Development Board (UPETDB) has started the process to select an implementing agency to develop Sharda Barrage in Lakhimpur Kheri as a premium accommodation and wellness tourism destination. The project aims to blend nature, wellness and sustainable tourism, positioning the site as a peaceful retreat for domestic and international travellers. The selected agency will be allotted land to develop eco-friendly accommodation and wellness facilities. It will handle planning, design, construction, financing, operation and maintenance, besides ensuring tourist safety and site security. UPETDB will coordinate with concerned government departments. The project will follow an Operation and Maintenance (O&M) model with a 15-year concession, extendable by another 15 years based on performance. No capital grant will be given, and revenue will be generated through an annual premium-based model. The focus will be on prefabricated and sustainable structures to reduce environmental impact. Director (Eco Tourism) Pushp Kumar K. said the initiative reflects the state's commitment to quality and sustainable tourism, integrating wellness with natural landscapes....