Kolkata: The state govt has identified 250 acres of land opposite Jhargram Zoological Park, out of which 65 acres will be utilised for a tiger safari project. The project was announced in the state budget by finance minister Swapan Dasgupta.“Our govt is laying special emphasis on development of tribal areas. It is not about releasing some tigers here, we are eyeing a massive tourism boost in Jhargram with development of the tiger safari. Tourist footfall will double once the project is completed and Jhargram will emerge as one of the top destinations on Bengal’s tourism map,” state forest minister Manoj Kumar Oraon said following a ground visit along with senior officials of his department.Groundwork has already started, which includes fencing the earmarked area and erecting a boundary wall. As per plans, four tigers will be transferred from other zoos in Bengal and introduced in the safari.A senior forest official said a nature interpretation centre would be developed, a natural canal flowing at the rear of the existing zoo would be rejuvenated, and boating activities introduced. “There will be a cafeteria, stalls by self-help groups and allied tourist amenities involving local people with the aim to enhance their livelihood,” the official said, adding that Rs 10 crore has already been sanctioned for the project.Chief minister Suvendu Adhikari wants the project completed quickly, and the department has set a two-year timeline.“The entire process will be carried out in a scientific manner, following rules and regulations of Centre. The safari area will have a tiger shed or house for their upkeep,” the official added.The tiger safari at Jhargram will be the second in the state, with the existing one at Siliguri in North Bengal already emerging as a popular destination.
