Mumbai:
The state government has sanctioned Rs 2.32 crore to beautify the Karnala bird sanctuary.
The popular tourist spot near Panvel is home to over 140 species of birds. “The wildlife reserve is in a state of neglect. Based on a proposal submitted by MLA Prashant Thakur and forest officials we have given a goahead for improvement of the sanctuary and to improve services to cater to the needs of tourists,“ state finance minister Sudhir Mungantiwar told TOI.
The minister has instructed forest officials to prepare a plan under which basic infrastructure and development work can be initiated to attract more tourists to the sanctuary. Tourists have complained about the lack of basic amenities as the forest department has failed to maintain the sanctuary , citing financial constraints.
“There is the historic Karnala fort, which attracts trekkers and picnickers during monsoon. We will make the area a beautiful tourist attraction soon,“ Mungantiwar said.
“The revamp plan will include more shelters and cages for birds. Memento shops will be set up to augment income-generation potential of locals,“ said Panvel legislator Prashant Thakur. The state forest department plans to train youngsters in the area to take up jobs as tourist guides. The sanctuary receives more than 2,000 visitors every month.
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