With identification of 56 sites, UP government set to promote eco-tourism
India Today
The Uttar Pradesh government has identified 56 eco-tourism sites in 56 districts under the ‘One District, One Destination’ (ODOD) scheme.
In an attempt to achieve the dual objective of boosting eco-tourism and increasing employment opportunities, the Uttar Pradesh government has identified 56 eco-tourism sites in 56 districts under the ‘One District, One Destination’ (ODOD) scheme.
The concept is about identifying one destination in every district that could be branded as an eco-tourism spot to attract nature enthusiasts.
On the instructions of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the Department of Forest is identifying potential areas in every district of the state which will be developed under the ODOD scheme, so that these sites can be integrated with tourism.
UP has several eco-tourism spots, but the most prominent are the tiger reserves, wildlife sanctuaries and wetlands. The Katarniya Ghat Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Upper Gangetic plain falling in Bahraich boasts of having tigers and a mosaic of sal and teak woods. The Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary is notable for being the natural habitat of the ‘barasingha’ (swamp deer).
Similarly, the Majhauli Sagar of Siddharthnagar, Badela Tal (lake) of Azamgarh and the Ghoomar Tal of Jaunpur will get special recognition as eco-tourism destinations soon. Besides, many such areas endowed with serene natural beauty will be seen on the map of eco-tourism.
Giving details about the scheme, an official of the Department of Forest said, “There is immense potential for eco-tourism in UP. The location of each district is suitable for specific natural, environmental or wildlife tourism. If these places are interconnected, then it can attract tourists for picnics, or one-day-tours.”
The official added, “Similar places will be selected and developed under ODOD. Basic facilities like rest rooms, roads, electricity, water, toilets, rest rooms as well as security arrangements will be made at the selected sites. An Eco-tourism Board is also being formed for this.”
