Rajamahendravaram: Maha Pushkara Vanam attracts one and all

Rajamahendravaram: The people of the Grand City of Culture are happy as now they have a place to sit, walk and spend some time with family members and friends at 'Godavari Maha Pushkara Vanam', (GMPV) which was three km away from the city located adjacent to the national highway. 

Former chief minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu inaugurated the GMPV on the first day of Godavari Maha Pushakarams--2015, a tribute to the celestial festival.

The Forest Department designed an action plan to make it a tourist hub which was located in an area of 250 acres in the reserve forest. Daily at least 500 people are visiting the Vanam and 1,000 people on holidays.

A five km long walking track was arranged for walkers which is getting a good response. Plastic was totally banned in the Vanam and the authorities are providing clay water bottles by paying a refundable deposit of Rs 100 and cycles on the refundable deposit of Rs 50 to the visitors. In addition to this, a small mart was set up to sell clay-related items in the Vanam. The ticket cost per adults is Rs 10 and for children Rs 5.

Bio-diversity complex, ethological centre, natural study centre, Coringa marine museum, botanical garden, forest bath, Nakshtra Vanam, Raasi Vanam and models of 32 ft blue whale skelton, skeletons of various animals (protecting by applying chemicals), models of animals and trees of Papi Hills and Coringa mangroves were also kept in bio-diversity centre, lion, tiger, byson, deer and others are also attracting the visitors.

Moreover, Ashok Vanam is another attraction here. As many as 100 varieties of ornamental flowers are also available in the park. The Vanam is benefitting a lot to botanical students.

Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) N Prateep Kumar directed the officials to develop

GMPV as an important tourist hub as the importance of the city is growing and many tourists are coming to the city.

Conservator of Forests N Nageswara Rao said plans were afoot to develop the Vanam on all fronts which also helps to encourage eco tourism. The Vanam officials will go round into the area frequently.

Member of Parliament Margani Bharat Ram said steps will be taken to develop GMPV as an important tourist hub and if necessary the issue would also be taken to the notice of Union Ministry of Tourism.