06 July,2015 12:01 PM IST | | Ranjeet Jadhav
SGNP officials to soon appoint consultant to prepare Detailed Project Report for high-quality sustainable eco-tourism concepts, in order to offer unique visitor experience as seen at parks around the world
In order to develop the tourism zone of the Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) to bring it on par with renowned international parks around the world, authorities will soon be inviting a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the appointment of a consultant to prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for high quality sustainable eco-tourism concepts and activities to offer unique visitor experience.
Speaking to mid-day, SGNP Director Vikas Gupta said, "The park is unique, as it is situated within a metropolis. Moreover, we want the tourists visiting SGNP to get that international feel. So, we are going to invite an RFP for the appointment of a consultant, who will prepare a DPR.
The main attractions developed in the tourism zone will include tourist huts, a conference hall, cafeterias, leopard safari and nature interpretation centres." After taking charge as the state forest minister last year, Sudhir Mungantiwar had asked the SGNP authorities to prepare a plan for revamping the park's tourism zone, so that it attracts domestic and international tourists alike.
A presentation in this regard was also made to the forest minister a few months ago. "One of the motives behind transforming the tourism zone is to support long-term job creation for the locals and facilitate and augment local tourist circuits," said Assistant Conservator of Forest (ACF) Sachin Repal.
An official said a mobile application of the SGNP would also be developed, so that people learn about park and its flora and fauna.
