Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (SP)

Udupi, Dec 3: Towards developing the tourism potential of the district and attracting more visitors, a number of plans are being executed. A huge tree park will come up at an isle of River Swarna.

Hattikudru isle in Moodutonse village will house this 30-acre tree park. The plan to develop isles in Udupi taluk without damaging the environment is under consideration. The officials and the executives have now come up with the tree park plan. This scheme will be implemented by the forest department with the participation of the tourism department. Hattikudru, surrounded by water of River Swarna on all sides, is very beautiful. This isle can be reached through boats from Kallianpur road. Presently, this isle is full of acacia, coconut and other trees and bushes.

The proposed tree park will require Rs 2.7 crore and the forest department has submitted a proposal to the government seeking the grant. Local trees and plants will be grown here to facilitate the local species of fishes and birds. Placards will be on display about walkways, seats, benches, selfie points, migrant birds, special fishes etc.

For the purpose of executing the tree park, a study about the migrant birds had been done through the Coastal Karnataka Bird Watchers Network. The organization has reported that the isle is visited every week by 145 types of birds.

Zilla panchayat member, Janardan Tonse, said that the people here are not opposed to the tree park plan but advised against retaining the acacia trees in the tree park. He wanted acacia trees to be removed to grow other naturally growing plants and trees. He also wanted the scheme to benefit the locals.

Kundapur range forest conservator, Ashish Reddy, said that a proposal for sanction of Rs 2.7 crore for the above project has been submitted and that steps will be taken on the request to clear acacia trees.