Plan to Run Battery Operated Vehicles in Mangalajodi Wetland

The effort of the Government to run battery operated vehicles will go a long way to create the importance of Mangalajodi wetland. At present, tourists can take their vehicles directly to the wetland through the narrow stretch, leading to congestion of the stretch. If the wildlife department has its way, tourists will be asked to park their vehicles in the village and hire battery-operated vehicles to reach the wetland popular among birdwatchers. The move is part of the comprehensive plan to develop eco-tourism activities at all wildlife sanctuaries outside the protected areas so that villagers reap the benefits and help the department in conservation of forest and wildlife. Regional chief conservator of forest (Bhubaneswar circle) Anup Nayak said they were also planning to develop infrastructure for constructing eco-cottages for tourists. Once we build eco-cottages there, the villagers will be engaged in the process so that they reap the benefits. TOI