Eco-tourism plan mooted to link Kailasagiri, zoo and Kambalakonda

Visakhapatnam MP M. Sribharat has proposed an integrated eco-tourism development plan linking Kailasagiri, the Indira Gandhi Zoological Park and Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary to strengthen the city’s tourism potential while ensuring environmental conservation.

At a meeting held at the Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority (VMRDA) office on Friday, Mr. Sribharat reviewed preliminary proposals with VMRDA Metropolitan Commissioner N. Tej Bharat, District Forest Officer Ravindra Dhama, Zoo Curator Mangamma, and representatives of Singapore-based Mandai and Bengaluru-based Integrated Design.

The MP said Visakhapatnam, already recognised as a tourism destination, possesses diverse geographical features that offer significant scope for eco-tourism. He directed officials to prepare a comprehensive report in coordination with the Forest Department, VMRDA, Tourism Department and the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation, ensuring that all proposals comply with legal requirements and prioritise environmental protection.

Mr. Sribharat suggested developing additional adventure tourism facilities in scenic locations such as Kailasagiri and Kambalakonda, while also assessing the infrastructure required to improve the visitor experience. He asked officials to examine the feasibility of introducing a night safari at prominent tourist destinations.

As a first step, officials were instructed to identify the needs of residents and tourists and prepare development proposals accordingly. A detailed project report is expected to be submitted shortly.