Punjab’s Forests and Wildlife Preservation Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak, laid the foundation stone for a Nature Awareness Camp at Hawa Mahal in Government Forest Karanpur C-3(B), Talwara – 2 range, under Dasuya Division today.
Minister Lal Chand highlighted that this project, part of the state’s eco-tourism initiative, is set to cost ₹80 lakh. It will be the first of its kind near Pong Dam and will include two temporary huts, a kitchen, a dining hall, and a canteen for local residents.
Additionally, a 2 km nature trail will be developed from the camp to Talwara, along with water sports facilities for tourists at Shah Canal barrage. Pong Dam, known for being a haven for migratory birds, will also serve as a new tourist destination.
Minister Lal Chand further mentioned that the Forest Department is training local youth to become nature guides, who will not only accompany tourists on bird-watching trips but also educate them about the beauty of nature. This project will operate on an Income Sharing Model, which will boost the local economy.
Minister Lal Chand also noted that the Rock Garden near Talwara has already become a popular tourist spot. Moreover, eco-tourism centers have been developed at Chauhal Dam in Hoshiarpur, as well as Maili Dam, Thana Dam, and Dhar area in Pathankot, with more projects in the pipeline.
Other notable attendees at the event included MLA Karambir Singh Ghuman, PCCF (HoFF) Dharminder Sharma, Conservator of Forests (North Circle) Dr. Sanjeev Kumar Tiwari, DFO Anjan Singh Talwara – 2, and DFO Hoshiarpur Amneet Singh.