Tiger Wilds flouts ecological norms

HYDERABAD: It was to be a showpiece to showcase and promote ecotourism in the state. But in the process, Tiger Wilds, the ecotourism project promoted by the AP Tourism Development Corporation in the Rajiv Gandhi Tiger Reserve, has cut several corners, the biggest of them being the location of the ‘resort’ deep in the forest.
The MoU, the forest department had signed with the APTDC for promotion of eco-tourism in the state, specifically states that any such project could be undertaken as per the management plan of a protected area.In the case of the Rajiv Gandhi Tiger Reserve that straddles the Nallamala forests, the management plan prohibits any such activity within the forest.
Sources said Tiger Wilds, being promoted vigorously by APTDC, also flouted provisions of the MoU with respect to construction of cottages, restaurant and other facilities in an area which was prime tiger habitat till recently.
The reserve, largest protected area for tigers in the country, is spread over 3,500 square kilometres.
“The Farhabad area where Tiger Wilds has come up, was prime tiger habitat and one can also see evidence of leopards there. But now, with nearly 30 to 40 vehicles zooming all over the forest every day, most of the animals other than a few deer, have disappeared,� the sources said. Also, the sources said that ever since Tiger Wilds was opened for tourists, the spot had been receiving visitors in buses that drive through eight kilometres of thick jungle violation of the MoU. Only vehicles booked by the APTDC are to be allowed inside, the sources said.
The Tiger Wilds eco-tourism project comprises of a tree-top restaurant, a series of cottages and two dormitories that can accommodate 50 persons a night. “However, the first rule is that no night stay was be allowed in the Rajiv Gandhi Tiger Reserve. But this condition too has been flouted as have been others,� the sources said.
•Management plan prohibits any resort within the tiger reserve
•Most animals except a few deer have disappeared
•Buses allowed through forest area violates MoU Disturbed habitat