Plan on anvil to develop Musalimadugu as eco-tourism destination

District Collector Sumit Kumar on Wednesday said that the Musalimadugu forested village zone will be developed into a vibrant eco-tourism destination. He said that a detailed action plan will be ready soon to unlock the potential of the region.

The Collector was inspecting the forested villages in Bangarupalem and Palamaner mandals abutting Koundinya Wildlife Sanctuary. Mr. Sumit Kumar said that Musalimadugu had a potential to develop on the lines of Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu.

The Forest officials informed the Collector that Musalimadugu and adjoining Tekumanda regions were known for their frequent elephant movements, with most migratory herds emerging from Mudumalai and Bannerghatta forests along the Western Ghats.

The Collector said that as part of the ongoing ’Karthika Masam’, the forested areas and waterfalls would attract large crowds. He instructed the officials to enhance visitor amenities, sanitation, and security measures. Mr. Sumit Kumar said that ’Vanamahotsavam’ (forest festival) initiatives should be organised to promote environmental awareness and tourism.

He also directed the officials to ensure safe zones for elephants, maintaining adequate distance from the main venue, under the supervision of mahouts and veterinary teams. He further highlighted the importance of barricading and maintaining cleanliness in and around the wildlife zones.