Pimpri-Chinchwad’s iconic APPU Ghar to get a high-tech makeover

• Rs. 18.60 crore private investment planned; new rides, immersive attractions and modern facilities to boost city tourism

PIMPRI : The iconic ‘Appu Ghar’ amusement park at Indira Gandhi Udyan in Nigdi, which has been part of the childhood memories of generations of Pimpri-Chinchwad residents for nearly 35 years, is set for a major high-tech makeover.

The amusement park, which has emerged as one of the city’s prominent tourism attractions, will undergo a comprehensive transformation through a private investment of Rs. 18.60 crore. The proposal in this regard was approved by the Standing Committee with amendments proposed by its chairman Abhishek Barne.

35-year-old rides need modernisation
Appu Ghar is one of the oldest entertainment destinations in Pimpri-Chinchwad. However, several of its rides and equipment are now between 20 and 35 years old. The ageing and deteriorating rides have reduced the attraction of the park among the younger generation, resulting in a decline in visitor numbers and revenue. With several new tourism and entertainment destinations emerging in and around the city, modernisation of Appu Ghar had become essential to enable it to compete with contemporary amusement parks.

Two-year extension following COVID-19 closure
Appu Ghar remained closed from March 16, 2020, to January 2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Considering the financial losses suffered by the operator during the closure period, the civic administration prepared a proposal to revise the rent as per the terms and conditions and grant a two-year extension beyond the original contract period. The Standing Committee chairman Abhishek Barne approved the proposal with appropriate amendments.

Smart facilities and themed landscaping
  The park will be redesigned around Nature and Kids themes, along with improved landscaping and visitor amenities.
  The upgraded facilities will include digital ticketing, queue management, smart parking, a modern food court, improved drinking water facilities and upgraded drainage infrastructure.

Safety to remain top priority
Safety standards have also been given high priority under the project. The operator will be required to comply with norms relating to fire safety, CCTV surveillance, emergency response systems, structural safety, guest insurance and public liability insurance. The redevelopment is planned to be completed within 12 to 18 months. Under the agreement, the Municipal Corporation will receive a 10% annual rent escalation in the first year, followed by a 5% annual increase every year thereafter. The revamped Appu Ghar is expected to give a significant boost to Pimpri-Chinchwad’s tourism sector, while also creating local employment opportunities and generating business for various local establishments.

New-age rides and attractions

• Log Flume water ride
• Flying Cinema
• 360-degree Immersive
  Dome
• Horror House
• Mirror Maze and Infinity
  Tunnel
• Niagara artificial waterfall
• Kids Traffic Park
• Arcade Games
• AR-VR Zone
• Interactive Selfie Zone

“The modernisation of Appu Ghar will give a new identity to Pimpri-Chinchwad’s tourism sector. The project will not only restore one of the city’s most cherished attractions but also provide residents with a modern and safe entertainment destination. It will create employment opportunities and give a boost to local businesses,”

• Abhishek Barne, Chairman, Standing Committee, PCMC