Elephant ambari statue unveiled at airport

Vijayawada: The Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation Chairman V Jayarami Reddy said there was an increase in tourism inflow in the state and there was 20 per cent revenue hike registered in tourism sector from April last year. He said the tourists from Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai and Delhi visiting the state to explore tourist places.

The APTDC Chairman inaugurated Kondapalli elephant ambari at the entrance of Vijayawada Airport on Friday. Speaking on the occasion, the Chairman said that the world famous Kondapalli toy elephant ambari replica stands as an icon of  Amaravati tourism. He said there was an abnormal increase in air traffic from Vijayawada Airport.

The air passengers, who depart and arrive here, will have an opportunity to have a glimpse at the giant 18-ft elephant ambari. He said that there is an opportunity to increase tourist inflow with the added attraction.

Speaking on the occasion, APTDC Managing Director Himansu Sukla said that the elephant ambari will represent the craftsmanship of Kondapalli toy artisans. He said the APTDC is developing the Kondapalli Fort as a tourist spot.

APTDC executive director G Umamaheswara Rao, general manager P Harinath and others were present. The guests and passengers appreciated the officials of tourism department for adding new attractions to the airport. They also said that the tourists could know the greatness of Kondapalli toys.