One of Asia's biggest wetlands, Keshopur Chamb, is set to get a fresh lease of life with the Punjab Government sanctioning Rs 8.10 crore for its revival. The Department of Tourism and Cultural Affairs has already finalised technical bids following which the process of financial bidding has started. The wetland, spread over 850 acres, attracts migratory birds from as far as Central Asian countries. Ornithologists had been expressing concern over the deplorable condition of the wetland, following which the state government prepared a plan for its revival. The project, which is to be jointly implemented by the Ministries of Tourism, Wildlife, Forests and the Gurdaspur district administration, aims at developing the area as a major eco-tourist spot by conserving its ecology and simultaneously generating revenue by providing employment to locals. Deputy Commissioner Abhinav Trikha, who is coordinating efforts amongst various ministries, said: "Thousands of migratory birds used to visit the area during winters either in search of food or to escape the severe weather conditions in their native habitat. However, due to several reasons, which include both natural and manmade, the birds had stopped coming. We will spend Rs 10 lakh on planting 3,000 saplings over a period of three years while Rs 35 lakh will be spent on removing weeds". A tourist interpretation centre (TIC) is also being established at a cost of Rs 71.58 lakh in Matwa village. The centre will have exhibition and administrative areas, a seminar hall, a souvenir shop and a cafeteria. An 8-km-long nature trail is also being constructed at a cost of Rs 22 lakh. However, officials are concerned over the condition of the road leading to the wetland from Gurdaspur. The road is full of potholes and the work to re-carpet it is yet to commence even as the PWD authorities had floated tenders for the same in October last year. Though the funds earmarked for infusing a new life into the struggling wetland seem adequate, ornithologists say since too many agencies are engaged in the work, there may arise a problem of coordination. Infusing a new life Rs 10 lakh will be spent on planting 3,000 saplings over a period of three years and Rs 35 lakh on removing weeds A tourist interpretation centre is being established at a cost of Rs 71.58 lakh in Matwa village The centre will have exhibition and administrative areas, a seminar hall, a souvenir shop and a cafeteria An 8-km-long nature trail is also being constructed at a cost of Rs 22 lakh