September 26, 2018
Boost for eco-tourism in north Bengal
The West Bengal Forest Development Corporation (WBFDC) has made elaborate plans to boost eco-tourism in north Bengal through a major overhaul of its properties and also through educating tourists regarding the dos and don’ts related to eco-tourism.
The WBFDC is also coming up with a new eco-tourism camp adjacent to Jhalong waterfall, with lodging facilities for tourists. Accommodation at the ecotourism resort in Jaldhaka, which enjoys full occupancy throughout the year, is being increased by 20.
In north Bengal, the WBFDC has nature resorts in places such as Jaldhaka, Murti, Paren, Rasikbil, Suntalekhola, Loleygaon, Lava, Kalimpong, Mongpong and Lepchajagat. The locations of these properties and the excellent hospitality provided by the staff ensure steady reservations throughout the year.
It may be mentioned that the WBFDC has roped in some local villagers from Panijhora to work at its Murti Resort in the Dooars. According to a senior WBFDC official, these villagers not only do cooking and other activities for tourists but also guide them about the best time for animal sighting during jungle safaris. The organisation is looking at similar tie-ups with local youths for its other resorts.
Regarding educating tourists about dos and don’ts, the WBFDC has decided to distribute booklets among tourists during their period of stays at its resorts, all of which are located in and around forest areas.
The WBFDC wants to inculcate the message that an eco resort is not like a conventional hotel and so certain rules have to be strictly adhered to. Plastic is completely banned, for example, and there is restriction on electricity usage as too much light discourages animals to venture near the resorts. Getting to see wild animals and birds from the comfort of the resorts is one of the prime attractions of these nature resorts.
Source: Millennium Post
