The Andhra Pradesh Government has identified 21 new tourist destinations for development, including five in East Godavari district and Koringa forest area as an eco-tourist spot.

Answering queries during the question hour, the Minister for Culture and Tourism, Mr Vatti Vasanta Kumar, said that the State Government has identified Koringa forest area as a priority project. The Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation has proposed developing an eco-tourism spot there with an investment of Rs 6.25 crore, wherein the Central Government is likely to provide Rs 5.20 crore.

Replying to a query raised by Mr K. Kannababu, with regard to new locations identified for development and the number of people employed with APTDC, the Minister said that APTDC employed 1,910 people and 1,600 through public-private partnership projects in the State.

He said that there was a proposal to develop the beach along the coast in port town of Kakinada. The district Collector has identified land for development.

RESERVOIRS AS SITES

Further, APTDC has identified seven reservoirs for development as tourist destinations. Dindi reservoir, Gundlakamma, Yeleru, Brahmasagar, Sriramsagar, Kadem and Jurala have been identified and expression of interest invited for developing them into tourist sites.

The EoI received overwhelming response with 162 applications and the selection of developer is at advanced stage.

source: http://www.TheHinduBusinessLine.com / Industry & Economy> Government and Policy / Hindu Bureau / March 01st, 2012