Patna: The Bihar Government is planning to expand eco-tourism across the state’s natural and hilly regions, with new tourist facilities proposed around dams, reservoirs and other scenic locations in four districts.
The plan covers Odhni Dam in Banka, Kharagpur and Jalkund dams in Munger, and Tarakol Dam in Nawada. Kasraiya Dhar in Khagaria has also been identified for development as an eco-tourism site.
Glass Rooms, Ropeways And Eco-Friendly Structures
Among the proposed attractions is a glass room near Kharagpur Dam, aimed at offering visitors a closer view of the surrounding landscape.
Ropeways are also proposed at locations where the terrain makes them suitable. In hilly areas, the government has directed that bamboo and wood should be prioritised for tourist infrastructure because of their eco-friendly and durable qualities.
The plan also includes solarisation and green-energy facilities at tourism sites, alongside visitor amenities.
Land To Be Acquired Where Needed
The government has directed officials to assess land availability for eco-tourism projects. Where sufficient government land is not available, land purchase or acquisition will be considered, after which projects can be developed through the public-private partnership (PPP) model.
Officials have been asked to speed up land-related work around the Tarakol and Jalkund dams so that the proposed projects can move forward.
Focus On Green Cover
The eco-tourism plan also includes a major plantation component. The government has called for large-scale plantation around major ponds and reservoirs to increase green cover and improve the natural setting of tourism destinations.
The approach is intended to combine tourism development with environmental conservation and nature-friendly infrastructure.
Existing Eco-Tourism Network
The proposed projects will add to Bihar’s existing eco-tourism destinations, including Odhni Dam, Bhimbandh Sanctuary, Kakolat Waterfall, Ghora Katora and Valmiki Tiger Reserve.
The latest plan aims to expand the state’s eco-tourism network further, with glass rooms, ropeways, solar power and nature-friendly construction forming key parts of the proposed development.
