AP prepares special tourism development plan: Pawan Kalyan

By The Capital

On 25 Nov 2024 18:24:03

AP prepares special tourism development plan: Pawan Kalyan

Deputy Chief Minister K Pawan Kalyan announced that a comprehensive plan is being crafted to boost the tourism sector in Andhra Pradesh.

Deputy Chief Minister K Pawan Kalyan announced that a comprehensive plan is being crafted to boost the tourism sector in Andhra Pradesh. Speaking at a meeting on Monday focused on generating jobs and enhancing development through tourism, Pawan Kalyan emphasized the untapped potential of the State’s tourism opportunities.

Highlighting the scope for adventure tourism, he suggested establishing adventure theme parks in areas like Adoni and Dondapadu in Kurnool district and Siddavatam in the joint Kadapa district. "Neighboring States like Karnataka and Kerala have adventure parks attracting school field trips. We need similar initiatives to prevent the outflow of students and promote local tourism," he said. Such developments, he added, could create significant employment opportunities for the youth. He also pointed to the State’s rich natural and cultural heritage, including elephant camps in Nandyal, the scenic Gandikota and Horsley Hills, Gudimallam Temple near Tirupati, and the Koringa Mangrove Forest near Kakinada.

However, he stressed that the public lacks awareness of these spots. “Tourist attractions must be publicized effectively, and films can play a key role in this. Countries like New Zealand and Ukraine have successfully leveraged films to promote tourism,” he noted. Pawan Kalyan proposed seasonal special trains, similar to Yatra buses, for pilgrims visiting Tirupati from regions like Latur in Maharashtra, which sees around 1,000 devotees daily.

Such measures, he argued, could also appeal to international tourists. The Deputy Chief Minister underscored the importance of protecting heritage sites from neglect and ensuring their preservation. He called for identifying places tied to India’s freedom struggle and social movements and developing them into tourist attractions. "Tourists’ safety should remain a top priority as we expand our tourism footprint," he concluded. Ends// \