U’khand govt focus on wildlife tourism

DEHRADUN: The state government is trying to revive tourism in the state based on wildlife. This became necessary as religious tourism was hit by the flashfloods of 2013.

For the first time, Dhela eco tourism zone in prestigious Corbett Tiger Reserve (CTR) will be opened to tourists on December 1. The five traditional zones of the reserve were opened on November 15 for both day and night shifts. With the opening of sixth zone at the reserve, the government aims at providing wider opportunity to tourists for exploring wildlife in the hill state. Similarly, Rajaji National Park too opened to tourists on November 15.

Talking to Hindustan Times, forest and wildlife minister Dinesh Aggarwal said, “Certainly, our state is rich in flora and fauna. So why not promote them for eco-tourism? The Himalayan tsunami that hit our state in 2013 hampered religious tourism. But we can cover up through wildlife tourism, especially when we have immense potential. People in our country and outside are nature lovers. That’s why they come to our state every year.”

According to the department statistics, during last tourist season (2013-14) more than two lakh tourists visited Corbett including 5,262 foreigners. Through tourism, a sum of more than ` 7 crore was generated. Needless to mention, tourists from across the world are enchanted to watch Bengal tiger, which is the flagship species of the reserve. In addition, day and night shifts at the reserve are already booked until January 2015.

Similarly, tiger safari in Kotdwar is also proposed for boosting tourism. While it will be a difficult task to catch a glimpse of big cats in Corbett, those wanting to admire the animal closely can reach the safari spot.

As per the plan, rescued tigers will be kept in cages where people can watch them. There will be entry ticket and funds will be used to pay salaries of staff and maintain the area.