Permission for Andharban, Sudhagarh Forest and the Tamhini Wildlife Sanctuary: Pune Forest Department Decides to Allow Tourists to Apply Online
The authority is planning to install toilets, dustbins, and other facilities. Moreover, the revenue generated from tourism will be used for the development of the village adjoining to this forest region
Pune, June 29: The Pune Forest Department has decided to allow tourists inside Andharban, Sudhagarh forest and the Tamhini wildlife sanctuary once again. Two days ago, the forest officials had restricted the entry in the region. However, today in a recent development, the forest department has withdrawn its decision and has decided to revoke the ban. As per the Hindustan Times news report, the region will be developed as a tourist place but the entry to the forest will be allowed only under a few conditions.
Over the decision to lift the ban, Vivek Khandekar, chief conservator, forests, Pune circle was quoted as saying,“After a meeting with forest officials and local administration it was decided that instead of a blanket ban, the area can be developed for eco-tourism and with certain conditions, like only a limited number of trekkers and wildlife enthusiasts can be allowed to enter the forest."
To keep track on visitors and to ensure their safety, the forest officials have decided to grant permission on a registration basis. "The mail should contain information about the trekking group, name, age and sex of every participant going into the forest. They will also have to pay an entry fee in advance and only then will they get permission to enter,” said Ankita Tarade, range forest officer.
She added, "Entry will be limited to 200 visitors per day. Once that number is reached, we will reject further applications or will allow them to apply for the next day’s slot."
Apart from that, they are also planning to develop an app for entry permission. The application will also require details of trekkers who wish to visit the forest. Similar to email registration, the mobile app won't accept applications beyond 200.
Besides this, the authority is planning to install toilets, dustbins, and other facilities in the forest. The revenue generated from tourism will be used for the development of the villages adjoining the forest, added the officials.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 29, 2018 07:10 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).