Kakinada, April 23: A blend of entertainment and education is the best package to grab for summer vacation and the famous Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary on the city outskirts is offering it. The community-based eco tourism (CBT) package from the Forest Department is providing an opportunity to the public to go deep into the mangroves on the newly laid interior roads, besides enjoying a boat ride till the sea-mouth.
Known as the second largest mangrove in the country after Sundarbans in West Bengal, the Coringa mangrove is famous for its flora and fauna. As many as 35 plant species and 120 species of fauna are present in the sanctuary. Located about 15 km from the city on Kakinada-Yanam route, Coringa has entry points at Chollangi, Coringa and Ramannapalem villages, where the Forest Department erected hoardings welcoming the nature lovers.
“The response to the eco-tourism package is impressive. We are witnessing huge rush on holidays and weekends,” says Y. Kalpana, Forest Beat Officer, posted at Chollangi. Swings, ramps and other play equipment have been arranged for children at Chollangi, besides construction two rest houses for those who prefer daylong stay in the sanctuary. “Pedal boats and 20-seater boats are available here for those who wish to go boating. The boating provides an opportunity to have a very close glimpse of the mangrove for about 40 minutes,” she says, while giving the details of daylong boating facility. The entry fee for eco-tourism is Rs. 10 per head for elders and Rs. 5 per child. Various boating packages are available that range from Rs. 400 to Rs. 2,500 per boat of a capacity of 20 persons.
“Coringa is the right place to take children for an outing. A tour in the mangrove helps children know about the importance of protecting the nature and environment,” says L. Seshu Kumari, convener of the Indian National Trust for Art and Heritage (INTACH).
–Agencies