Hyderabad: Minister Seethakka called for eco-tourism in Mulugu that protects the district’s forests and natural resources while creating livelihoods for tribal communities and jobs for local youth. She stressed that tourism projects must preserve the environment without damaging forest wealth.
Seethakka made the remarks during a meeting with Jayesh Ranjan at the Mulugu district collectorate on Saturday. Ranjan had visited the district for the first time after taking charge as Special Chief Secretary of the Forest and Environment Department. On the occasion, the minister congratulated him on his new responsibility.
She asked officials to frame development plans around Mulugu’s distinctive geography and natural resources. In particular, she cited the district’s dense forests, hills, streams, waterfalls and natural landscapes as attractions with tourism potential.
Eco-tourism in Mulugu must support local communities
Seethakka urged officials to develop tourism centres without harming forests or disturbing ecological balance. Therefore, she said, projects should protect natural resources while attracting visitors.
She also proposed linking tourism with locally available forest produce, handicrafts, traditional arts and food products. This, she said, could strengthen the rural economy and create income opportunities for local people.
At the same time, Seethakka called for strict enforcement of forest and environmental protection rules. However, she said these regulations should not obstruct access to essential infrastructure in agency areas.
She sought faster central forest and environmental clearances for development works. These included roads, drinking water facilities, electricity, schools, health centres and other basic services. She asked officials to prevent unnecessary delays in the approval process.
Seethakka said the government had a responsibility to provide essential facilities to people in agency villages. Accordingly, she urged Jayesh Ranjan to coordinate with the concerned departments and expedite clearances handled by the Centre.
District Collector Borkade Hemant Sahadeva Rao, Superintendent of Police Sudheer Ramnath Kekkan, District Forest Officer Vikas Meena and other senior forest, environment and district officials attended the meeting.