Eco-tourism Initiative In Anaimalai Tiger Reserve
A view of tree-top rest house in Top Slip, near Pollachi. Anaimalai Tiger Reserve (ATR) authorities are embarking on a project to launch guided, restricted eco-tourism in the sanctuary. The project is envisaged by ATR Field Director H. Basuvaraju and being implemented by Top Slip Range Officer S. Thangaraj Panneerselvam under instructions from Chief Wildlife Warden R. Sundarraj. The sanctuary is all set to sport a new look in six months giving a fillip to responsible and restricted tourism.Of the many new initiatives on the cards, Rs. 50 lakh is being spent on construction of drinking water facilities. A nature interpretation centre will come up at Rs. 20 lakh. Rest houses, stay facilities and dormitories are being modernised with enhanced comforts. Visitors making just a day’s trip (those who don’t stay back) will soon have a well-furnished lunch room.
Eco-tourism will also include nature trails giving one scope for bird watching. Besides, plants will be labelled with their common names and botanical names. Each label will have details about qualities and benefits of each plant. This will help tourists learn on their own, obviating the need for a guide. Medicinal Plants Conservation Area and Demonstration Centre will be improved with 50 new rare varieties of medicinal plants. Improvements will be done to seats mounted on elephants for safari and safari vehicles will be modernised.
