Irakam Island To Turn Into Eco-Tourism Spot
The development model is inspired by successful tourism hubs like Konaseema, aiming promoting low-impact, sustainable tourism: Reports
NELLORE: As part of a series of development initiatives, the Tirupati district administration is planning to transform the scenic Irakam island, nestled within Pulicat Lake, into a prominent eco-tourism destination, aiming to attract visitors while preserving the island's natural charm.
Spanning over 18 acres, the site has been earmarked for tourism infrastructure under the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC). Of this, three tourist cottages have already been completed and the remaining 15 rooms are expected to be ready before the upcoming Flamingo Festival, which attracts birdwatchers and nature lovers each year.
To improve connectivity, a boating platform has been sanctioned and speedboats will soon make the island accessible from the mainland in just 15 minutes. In addition, 95 acres of land have been identified for private eco-resort investments, with interest expressed by major firms like Mahindra Club Resorts.
The development model is inspired by successful tourism hubs like Konaseema, aiming promoting low-impact, sustainable tourism.
Beyond infrastructure, the focus is also on improving livelihoods and basic amenities for local communities. Fishing families and SC/ST households are being provided with essential support.
Each landless family is to receive 2.5 cents of house site land in Tada mandal, with pattas scheduled for distribution by August 15. The administration has committed to delivering roads, drinking water, and electricity to the island within the next two months.
As part of NTR Bharosa Day celebrations, officials reached the island by boat to distribute pensions directly to elderly and widowed residents. Under the Annadata Sukhibhava scheme, eligible farmers will start receiving Rs. 7,000 in their accounts from August 2.
The development plans were formally announced during a visit by District Collector Dr. S. Venkateshwar and Sullurupeta MLA Neelam Vijiayashree, who also interacted with island residents.
The MLA expressed gratitude to the district administration for its efforts in resolving long-pending housing issues and lauded the Collector's proactive support in balancing both tourism growth and community welfare.
Dr Ramana Prasad Rapuri, Regional Director, APTA & Executive Director, APTDC, Tirupati said that they have identified 20 acres of land suitable for resorts and the details have been sent to Mahindra Club Resorts while referring to a letter received from the govermment regarding allotment of land to Mahindra Club Resorts.