Patna, July 14 (APAC Media): The Bihar government plans to develop 29 major dams and 247 ponds and water bodies into eco-tourism destinations with private investment.
The initiative aims to attract tourists, create local jobs and strengthen rural economies.
Private investors have been invited to develop tourism facilities at natural sites across the state.
Bihar Eco-Tourism Plan to Roll Out in Two Phases
The government unveiled the plan at an Eco-Tourism Investors Meet organised by the Environment, Forest and Climate Change Department.
Environment Minister Ram Chandra Prasad and Additional Chief Secretary Anand Kishor inaugurated the event.
Under the Bihar eco-tourism plan, projects will be developed in two phases.
The first phase will focus on 29 large dams. These sites will be equipped with modern tourism and recreational facilities.
247 Ponds to Join Tourism Network
In the second phase, 247 large ponds and water bodies at the block level will be linked with tourism activities.
The move is aimed at taking tourism development beyond major cities and into rural areas.
The government expects these projects to support local businesses and generate new sources of income in villages.
Private Investors Invited for Eco-Tourism Projects
The Bihar government has invited Expressions of Interest (EOI) from private investors. Each eco-tourism project will have a separate design and development plan.
The projects will be implemented under the Viability Gap Funding (VGF) model.
Under the model, preference will be given to investors seeking the lowest financial support from the government.
Officials have also assured investors of simpler rules and procedures for faster project implementation.
Projects Planned on 30 Year Lease Model in Bihar
Several eco-tourism projects have been proposed in Nalanda, Nawada, Munger and Kusheshwarsthan.
Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Arvinder Singh said projects will be developed under a 30 year lease model.
Private players will be able to develop and manage tourism infrastructure at selected sites.
Hotels, Boating and Adventure Tourism Planned
The Bihar eco-tourism initiative is expected to create direct and indirect employment opportunities for local communities.
Development plans include hotels, resorts and homestays. Tourists could also get access to boating, water activities and adventure tourism facilities.
Local handicraft markets, regional food and cultural experiences are also part of the broader tourism plan.
These activities are expected to generate income for local residents and small businesses.
By combining private investment with government support, the Bihar eco-tourism plan aims to create jobs, strengthen village economies and promote sustainable tourism across the state.
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