Surajkund fair to have more artisan huts this time

With preparations for the Surajkund International Craft Fair in full swing, the authorities are likely to spend around Rs. 1.50 crore on repair work. The fair is scheduled to be held between February 7 and 23.

"The department is working on increasing the area of the fair this time, with the focus on increasing huts for artisans and participants," said an official on Tuesday.

He said while the number of additional huts to be set up was yet to be finalised, the expansion depended on the availability of open space. The authorities had provided around 1,150 huts last year, which saw the participation of over 1,500 indigenous and 250 foreign craftspeople. The addition of more huts, which would be weather-proof, were expected to provide additional space to meet the demand in view of the growing popularity of the fair and the number of participants.

The authorities have entered into an MoU with the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) for ticketing and availability of parking tickets.

With BIMSTEC countries (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Thailand, Nepal and Sri Lanka) already partner nation, the authorities are yet to declare the theme state for the upcoming event, though Northeastern states like Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Tripura and Mizoram will have a special focus regarding the presentation of art and craft.

US Bhardwaj, a senior official of the Tourism Department, said the mela premises would be made ready three-four weeks ahead of the inauguration.