Hills to get a makeover

The state government has already finalised plan to inaugurate the cycling and walking track in forest lands at Kotturu Tadepalli area. Some other locations are also under consideration for several new tourism projects.

The district officials said that forests and hilly areas near to the city are suitable for tourism and recreational activities. As part of it, they propose to inaugurate the cycling and walking tracks project by CM N. Chandrababu Naidu on July 17.

But post Rajahmundry stampede, it's doubtful if the CM will turn up, they added. According to ongoing developments, state government propose to denotify 33,000 hectares in Krishna district. Several lands have been proposed for various tourism related projects. Earlier, erstwhile Vijayawada Guntur Tenali Mangalagiri Urban Development Authority (VGTM VUDA) had proposed a hill view project. But it was withdrawn when the officials identified that the hill is under reserve forest limits.

But the present developments might allow such kind of projects says one official on condition of anonymity. He said that any kind of tourism project could be introduced, once the hills and forest areas that are de-notified.

When it comes to recreational facilities, denizens do not have much choice. Besides, cycling and walking is increasingly becoming popular around the city. But no sufficient space is available for the purpose except hill and forest lands.

AP Cycling Association state secretary V. Satayanarayana has requested the state government to provide special cycling tracks in city and outside, including in the new capital. Now the district administration is providing such facilities as per demand from several parts, he added.