Eco-tourism project inauguration tomorrow

The first phase of the Konni Eco-Tourism project, based at Konni elephant cage, will be opened to the public on February 1. Tourism Minister Kodiyeri Balakrishnan will inaugurate the project at a function to be held on Konni elephant cage premises at 4.pm. Forest Minister Binoy Viswam will preside over the function. Adoor Prakash MLA, will inaugurate the website.

 

The cost of the two-phased project, implemented with the active involvement of Adoor Prakash MLS, is Rs.2.89 crore. The first phase of the project, implemented at a cost of Rs.85 lakh, will include elephant safari, elephant museum, stalls for the sale of natural products and a light refreshment restaurant.

 

In the final phase, trekking programmes covering Kurichi-Aluvankudi Peruvalli lake in Kallar, Kattathi-Kottampara and ManalarKumbavarutti have been planned. The major attraction of the project is the active participation and involvement of the tribals living in forest areas through 'Vana samrakshana Samithi', numbering around two dozens.

 

(The New Indian Express, 31^st January 2007)