The project s original estimated cost of Rs350 million has now increased to Rs540 million after years of delay in approval, says official documents. The final approval followed revisions in the design following a study by Nespak.

The government will provide an additional grant, while funds will be arranged by the Planning and Development (P&D) Board for the Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) to execute the project.

Previously, the P&D Board and Finance Department had raised some objections, deeming the project expensive and unrealistic. Among their objections were a Rs50 million bridge and a Rs10.5 million selfie point.

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With the go-ahead now in hand, operations will start with the revised budget. The PHA will get additional funds and the P&D Board would provide the financing needed for implementation.

Alongside the floating restaurant, the PHA plans to revamp an underutilized picnic site in the same area, to attract more visitors and make it a popular destination.

The engineering team at PHA has crafted a comprehensive plan to breathe new life into the canal area, creating an inviting space for families and tourists.