In a significant development for nature tourism, the Shaheed Chandra Shekhar Azad bird sanctuary in Unnao has emerged as a major attraction, drawing over 12 lakh visitors in the current year alone. This remarkable achievement was highlighted during the tourism workshop on 'Viksit Uttar Pradesh @ 2047' held in Lucknow on Thursday.
Butterfly Diversity Transforms Sanctuary's Appeal
Originally celebrated for its diverse bird population, the sanctuary has now gained additional recognition for its extraordinary butterfly richness. Recent documentation reveals close to 80 butterfly species thriving across the sanctuary's varied habitats, including wetlands, grasslands, and wooded patches.
Experts participating in the workshop noted a significant ecological shift, with butterfly movement into central plains increasing substantially over recent years. This transformation has been supported by comprehensive studies conducted by Lucknow University and the UP biodiversity board, strengthening the ecological character of multiple regions including Nawabganj, Pilibhit, and Katarniaghat.
Ecotourism Vision for 2047
The ecotourism session brought together specialists from the UP forest department and field team representatives from Dudhwa, Pilibhit, and Katarniaghat. Participants emphasized the urgent need for improving visitor amenities at forest rest houses and jungle lodges to encourage extended stays.
Discussion also focused on enhancing visibility for natural attractions such as the prehistoric cave painting belts of Sonbhadra and Mirzapur. The year-round potential of experiences like the Vistadome Jungle Safari received special attention, while the Etawah Lion Safari was cited as an exemplary wildlife experience that could be positioned more prominently within the state's ecotourism portfolio.
Building a Sustainable Tourism Network
Director of Tourism (Eco), Pushpa Kumar K, outlined the department's comprehensive approach to strengthening nature tourism under the 2047 vision. He revealed that UP's ecotourism roadmap focuses on establishing a resilient green network spanning forests, wetlands, and wildlife corridors.
This ambitious plan will be supported by standardized eco-infrastructure and trained naturalists. The UP ecotourism development board is pushing several innovative initiatives including:
- Net-zero eco-sites
- Expanded bamboo cottage facilities
- Floating restaurants
- Youth-led nature programs
These concerted efforts aim to position Uttar Pradesh as a national model for responsible and community-linked nature tourism, creating sustainable opportunities while preserving the state's rich ecological heritage.
