Naniyala Eco-Tourism Project in Kuppam segment craves for funds

Tirupati: The Eco-Tourism project works at Naniyala Elephant Rehabilitation Centre of Ramakuppam mandal in Kuppam constituency, the former Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu's home turf, have almost halted due to lack of funds.

The foundation stone for the works was laid in January 2018 and was expected to be completed by December of that year. So far 60 per cent of the works were completed and the remaining works have been going on at snail's pace for the last four months due to lack of funds.

The project was designed to provide more insight for urban people on forests and wildlife and providing recreation. Initially it was designed as a Rs.2 crore project, but later with the initiative from the then District Collector, Tourism officials have sent proposals for another Rs.4 crore works and got them approved.

Under the initial planning, deer park, bird enclosure, jungle huts for visitors, environmental education centre, crocodile park, amusement park, elephant rehabilitation, watch towers and open air theatre were taken up.

With the approval of another Rs.4 crore works, 10 more jungle huts, five dormitories, two VIP jungle rests, E-convention to accommodate 600 people, swimming pool, landscaping and solar fencing were taken up.

It was learnt that the contractor has already spent d huge amounts on the project but the bills were not cleared forcing him to stop the works. Several works were remained at unfinished stage while some others like convention centre are left at foundation stage. The elephant rehabilitation centre has two elephants now.

The park was under the control of the forest department which has been drawing visitors especially during holidays. The attractions and climate at the project are expected to draw more visitors and it will become a major tourist attraction once the works are completed.

According to a tourism department official who preferred to be anonymous, the works have been progressing slowly. Most of the bills were approved already and the money has to be released. He expressed hope that soon the problem will be solved and the works will continue.