In a significant move to enhance infrastructure and boost conservation efforts, Bihar's Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Pramod Kumar has given his approval to multiple major proposals worth crores of rupees. The sanctioned projects focus on improving residential facilities for zoo and forest personnel while simultaneously promoting eco-tourism in the state's premier wildlife sanctuary.
New Housing Complexes for Forest Personnel
The department has allocated ₹10 crore for constructing a new residential complex for staff at Patna's Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park. This decision comes as existing quarters for forest guards and grade IV employees have fallen into severely dilapidated condition, requiring urgent replacement.
The new project will feature five G+3 buildings that will provide 30 new flats spread across a 2,276 square metre built-up area. This initiative aims to address the long-standing housing issues faced by the dedicated personnel who maintain and protect the biological park.
In a separate but related development, another proposal worth ₹21 crore was cleared for constructing a G+5 building with 15 officers' flats specifically for senior Indian Forest Service (IFS) cadre officers. This residential complex will be situated within the Aranya Bhawan complex, providing modern accommodation facilities for the state's top forest management officials.
Major Push for Eco-Tourism at Valmiki Tiger Reserve
Recognizing the growing potential of wildlife tourism, the minister has approved the development of a modern eco-tourism camp in the Valmikinagar Eco-Tourism Zone. The new facility will feature 30 additional rooms designed to enhance visitor experience while maintaining ecological sensitivity.
This upgraded camp is expected to significantly improve tourist facilities, accommodate the increasing number of visitors to the reserve, and generate additional revenue for the Valmiki Tiger Reserve Foundation. The expansion comes at a crucial time when wildlife tourism in Bihar is showing promising growth trends.
Valmiki Tiger Reserve, spread across 898 square kilometres, represents one of Bihar's most important ecological hotspots. The reserve is home to an impressive diversity of wildlife including 53 mammal species, 145 bird species, and 26 reptile species, making it a prime destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers.
Enhanced Wildlife Security and Management
To further strengthen conservation efforts and modernize management practices within VTR, the minister has approved the purchase of 8 new safari vehicles at a cost of ₹3 crore. This fleet expansion includes 6 additional vehicles for regular jungle safaris and 2 special safari vehicles designated for VIP guests.
The new vehicles will not only improve the tourist safari experience but also assist forest personnel in monitoring and protecting the vast reserve area more effectively. This investment in mobility infrastructure underscores the government's commitment to both conservation and tourism development.
These comprehensive approvals totaling approximately ₹34 crore represent a substantial investment in Bihar's environmental infrastructure and wildlife conservation framework. The projects are expected to significantly improve working conditions for forest personnel while simultaneously enhancing the state's eco-tourism capabilities, particularly at its flagship tiger reserve.
