Newstrack

ITDC to open spas with PPP model

Looks at having international tie-ups

Sanjeev Bhar - New Delhi

The India Tourism development Corporation (ITDC) is looking to spice up many of its hotel properties across the country by adding internationally-managed spas. Revealing this is Anil Malik, VP of ITDC, who says, "We have already finalised the plan for the Janpath Hotel in New Delhi, Hotel Jaipur Ashok, Hotel Kalinga Ashok in Bhubanewar, Brahmaputra Ashok Hotel in Guwahati and Hotel Pondicherry Ashok."

The ITDC group will offer space at its properties for operating the spas and will block rooms to offer the facility. "We have asked international companies with expertise in operating spas and expect to begin negotiations within the next four months. The model of operation is based on public private partnership (PPP) where the operating company will be given long-term lease for managing the spa and creating infrastructure requirement. The ownership will remain with ITDC," informs Malik.

The spas will be branded as Ashok Spa and will be equipped with all modern facilities. Malik says, "The entire process is in its planning stage and we will know the financial aspects of the entire project once the companies are identified." ITDC is also keeping the option open to select different companies for managing its spas at different centers.

Apart from a spa facility, the Brahmaputra Ashok Hotel in Guwahati will also get a convention centre with a capacity for 1,000 people and a wellness centre along with the spa. "The property has plenty of space and we plan to erect a convention centre which will be attractively located next to the river Brahmaputra. This will help bring in the MICE traffic to the hotel," Malik says.