ECO-TOURISM PROJECT AT KONNI

 
       ECO- TOURISM PROJECT AT KONNI

  The eco-tourism project launched by the Forest Department at Konni four years  ago is to get a face lift with the department deciding to launch the second phase of the project. All steps would be taken to set up a children's park and a butterfly park at the elephant camp
  Construction of a compound wall, proper lighting of the elephant camp, streamlining of the elephant safari with a view to attracting more tourists are the other thrusts areas in the second phase.
   The eco-tourism project, developed jointly by the departments of Forests and Tourism, at the nine-acre elephant camp was launched in January, 2007.
 The butterfly park will have a polycarbonate dome suitably designed for weather control. According to the sources, the park will be home to hundreds of colourful butterflies, including rare species, especially at a time when the butterfly populations is under threat due to depleting green cover .
  A conservatory museum, and an audio -visual room aimed at creating awareness among the visitors of biodiversity and a breeding house displaying metamorphosis of a butterfly will be the major attractions.
   Tree-top huts have been planned at the elephant camp to lure more tourists as part of the second phase of the project. This is besides the proposals for jungle treks, rock climbing and river rafting. Construction of an open air theater and a pond for bathing the captive elephants are the other schemes to be implemented  at the camp





                                                                        Prof. John Kurakar