Nagpur Forest Division Advances Major Nature Tourism Initiative Near Panchmukhi Hanuman Temple
The Nagpur forest division is progressing with ambitious plans for a comprehensive nature tourism project in the vicinity of the Panchmukhi Hanuman temple premises in Babulkheda, located approximately 35 kilometers from Nagpur city. This initiative aims to transform the area into a premier eco-tourism destination while promoting sustainable development and local economic growth.
Groundbreaking Ceremony Marks Project Launch
Earlier this week, a formal groundbreaking ceremony was conducted for the Rs 45.56 crore project, attended by key dignitaries including revenue minister and Nagpur district guardian minister Chandrashekar Bawankule. The event symbolized the official commencement of this significant undertaking, which has been sanctioned under the Maharashtra Nisarg Paryatan Vikas Mandal (MNPVM) and will be executed by the forest department.
Comprehensive Project Features and Sustainable Design
The nature park is designed to offer a wide array of amenities and attractions to cater to diverse visitor interests. Key components include:
- A massive entrance plaza and ample parking facilities to accommodate tourists
- Well-developed pathways for easy navigation throughout the park
- A nature information and lecture centre for educational purposes
- A restaurant offering local cuisine and refreshments
- An eco park highlighting regional biodiversity and conservation efforts
- An adventure park with thrilling activities for enthusiasts
- A bamboo walking trail providing a serene natural experience
- A bouldering deck for rock climbing enthusiasts
- Comfortable cottages for overnight stays
- A dedicated children's play area for family entertainment
Additionally, the project will incorporate essential infrastructure such as drinking water supply systems, sanitation facilities, and other basic amenities to ensure visitor comfort and safety. Emphasizing environmental responsibility, the development will integrate solar energy solutions, rainwater harvesting mechanisms, and efficient waste management practices to minimize ecological impact.
Political Support and Community Benefits
During the ceremony, Minister Chandrashekar Bawankule emphasized the project's community-oriented approach, stating, "This project belongs to the people and would be implemented for the people. This will generate employment for the locals. We should also consider building a skill development centre where training can be imparted to youth from surrounding villages to enable local employment."
Ramtek Lok Sabha MP Shyamkumar Barve expressed strong support for the initiative, noting, "This is a very good project, and I hope that the interests of locals will be kept in mind." Similarly, Saoner MLA Ashish Deshmukh highlighted the project's potential, saying, "The concept of this project is amazing, and it will be beneficial not only for locals but also for tourists." He further pointed out that the Saoner region possesses significant untapped tourism potential that this project could effectively unlock.
Forest Department Leadership and Implementation
The project launch was attended by senior forest officials who will oversee its execution, including M Srinivas Rao, principal chief conservator of forests; Giri Guruprasad, conservator of forests; Dr Bharat Singh Hada, member secretary of the Maharashtra State Biodiversity Board; and Dr Vineeta Vyas, deputy conservator of forests, among other departmental representatives. Their involvement ensures that the project aligns with conservation goals while meeting tourism development objectives.
This nature tourism project represents a strategic effort to balance ecological preservation with economic development, creating a model for sustainable tourism that benefits both the environment and local communities in the Nagpur region.
