Hyderabad: Telangana will transform Narsapur forest into a leading eco-tourism hub near Hyderabad, Forest and Environment Minister Konda Surekha announced on Saturday. She inaugurated a new urban eco park and unveiled upgraded cottage facilities in the Narsapur constituency.
Addressing the gathering, the minister said the government designed the eco park to appeal to both nature lovers and tourists. “We created this park with modern amenities to ensure visitors connect with nature meaningfully,” she said. The project, developed in partnership with private entities, will boost tourism along the Hyderabad-Medak highway corridor.
Cottages and activities to attract weekend travellers
Narsapur forest now includes 21 cottages near a water body and another 12 in a single block. The site also houses an environmental education centre, seminar hall, swimming pool, and zones for indoor and outdoor games such as net cricket and table tennis. Additionally, a restaurant and kitchen complex now serve visiting tourists.
The Forest Department planted saplings around the cottages to enhance the landscape. Out of 4,300 acres of district forest area, 600 have been earmarked for the Narsapur Urban Eco Park. The government is also constructing new check dams and a rock-fill dam to improve water conservation and the park’s ecosystem.
Soon, the park will introduce trekking and cycling tracks. “Our goal is to make this forest a preferred destination for weekend tourism,” said Surekha.
Wildlife, education, and family recreation in one space
The forest supports a diverse range of wildlife, including spotted deer, peacocks, four-horned antelopes, and wild boars. The government plans to set up a banquet hall with guest accommodation and an environmental education centre featuring classrooms, a museum, and boardrooms.
Minister Surekha said the park already includes walking trails, electricity, drinking water, fire safety systems, CCTV surveillance, and designated play areas for children. Recreational options now also include chess, cricket, and other indoor games.
She expressed concern that many children see forests only through screens. “It’s distressing that parents rely on Instagram reels to show their children what forests look like. They should bring them here to experience nature directly,” she said.
Eco parks essential in pollution-hit cities
As cities battle rising pollution levels, Surekha stressed the growing need for green zones like the Narsapur Eco Park. “Urban pollution is pushing people back to nature. Our government responded to that need by developing this eco park,” she said.
The event saw participation from Hyderabad Mayor Vijayalakshmi, Environment and Forests Principal Secretary Hammad Nadeem, PCCF Suvarna, CCF Priyanka Varghese, Medak Collector Rahul Raj, Additional Collector Nagesh, Mrugavani Resorts MD Vishnu Chaitanya Reddy, DFO Joji, RDO Mahipal Reddy, and Range Officer Aravind.