Goa’s only bird sanctuary, the famed Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, located on Chorao Island, is on the brink of a significant transformation. With an investment of Rs 5.9 crore, the sanctuary is set to welcome two major development projects aimed at enhancing the visitor experience while preserving its rich biodiversity. Vishwajit Rane, Minister for Forests, alongside several dignitaries, recently laid the foundation stone for these ambitious projects, paving the way for Goa’s commitment to sustainable tourism and environmental conservation.
The ceremony was attended by Deviya Rane, Chairperson of Goa Forest Development Corporation; MLA Premendra Shet; Ravindra Kinelekar, Sarpanch of Chorao; and Umakant, IFS, Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force (PCCF) Goa.
The Public Works Department (PWD), under the forest department’s capital outlay, has unveiled plans for the construction of a nature interpretation center and an administrative block within the sanctuary’s premises. The nature interpretation center, with an estimated cost of Rs 5 crore, is designed to serve as an educational hub, providing valuable resources on the sanctuary’s diverse ecosystems and resident species. Additionally, the administrative block, costing approximately Rs 94.3 lakh, aims to streamline the sanctuary’s operations, ensuring a better-managed and more visitor-friendly environment.
These development projects are not just infrastructural upgrades; they represent a firm stride towards balancing eco-tourism with biodiversity conservation. By offering in-depth educational experiences and improved amenities, the sanctuary aims to attract a broader audience, ranging from casual nature lovers to dedicated researchers. The nature interpretation center, in particular, is expected to play a crucial role in raising awareness about the importance of preserving natural habitats and the species they support.
This initiative reflects a broader vision of sustainable development, where economic growth and protecting the environment go hand in hand.
