SGNP all set for a makeover…..Sandeep Ashar
State Aims To Make National Park More Tourist-Friendly
State Aims To Make National Park More Tourist-Friendly
Mumbai: The Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) in Borivli is set for an image makeover.The state government has decided to take up an elaborate project to modernize the area in and around the park to attract more tourists.
The state believes that the tourism potential for the site could be further enhanced by incorporating a more touristfriendly approach.On the cards are better accommodation facilities outside the notified area of the park and an upgrade of tourist infrastructure inside the notified area.The Forest Development Corporation of Maharashtra (FDCM) has joined hands with the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) for the makeover.MTDC will take charge of developing tourist-friendly infrastructure,its marketing and branding,while FDCM will be responsible for the operation and maintenance.The two corporations signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on Wednesday with a view to promote eco-tourism at nine sites owned by the forest department.Makeover plans are also planned for national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in the Vidharbha region-including Tadoba,Chichghat,Pench,Nagzira,and Melghat.
Apart from funding from the state government,funds released by the central government for promotion of eco-tourism will also be utilized.