State Forest Development Corporation to boost eco-tourism

Kolkata: The West Bengal Forest Development Corporation (WBFDC) is taking a slew of measures for the development of eco-tourism in the state and at the same time will be incorporating as many as 15 eco-tourism centres spread across the state in its booking portal from January 2019.

"We have chalked out an elaborate plan to promote ecotourism and also giving a major overhaul to infrastructure development in areas where we have our eco-resorts," said Ravinder Pall Saini, managing director, WBFDC.

It may be mentioned that the WBFDC currently runs eco-tourism resorts in 19 locations of which 13 are located in North Bengal and six in South Bengal. In north Bengal, the WBFDC has nature resorts at Jaldhaka, Murti, Paren, Rasikbil, Suntalekhola, Loleygaon, Lava, Kalimpong, Mongpong, Samsing, Barodabri, Rajabhatkhawa and Lepchajagat, while South Bengal has resorts at Garpanchakot, Mukutmanipur, Jhargram, Lodhashuli, Tajpur

and Garchumuk.

The WBFDC in coordination with the state Tourism department is also working on developing home stay tourism in Bengal. From January 2019, we will be gradually bringing as many as 15 eco-tourism centres on our booking portal that includes Hatibari in Jhargram, Susunia in Bankura, Chatakpur in Darjeeling, Panjhore in Gorumara, Mendabari under Jaldapara National Park, Nemati under Buxa Tiger Reserve, Bonnie in the Sunderbans to name a few. It may be mentioned that all the 19 resorts under the WBFDC has online

booking facilities

The WBFDC will be taking up thematic development of various sites and will set up watch towers wherever there will be availability of space. "We are also making arrangements for live demonstration for tourists regarding zoos, arboretum, bambusetum, orchidarium to develop awareness. We want to spread the message that an eco-resort is not like a conventional hotel and they have to adhere to certain rules while staying in it," a senior official of the WBFDC said.

The tourist amenities that are being provided include waiting lounges, reception centre, exhibition of local cultural activities and a scientific plan for solid waste management.

"A blend of natural surrounding and local traditional style will be put in place while creating accommodation," the official added.The general principles that will be followed include — use of indigenous and ecologically sustainable resources for tourist accomplishments and most importantly working for economic welfare and improved livelihood

for local villagers. It may be mentioned that the WBFDC has roped in some local villagers from Panijhora to work at its Murti Resort in Dooars. According to a senior WBFDC official, these villagers not only do cooking and other activities for tourists but also guide them about the best time for animal sighting during jungle safaris.