
ISTOCK
The Jharkhand government has decided to adopt Bihar's Rajgir model for setting up its first tiger safari in Palamau to boost tourism in the area once affected by Maoists, an official said.
The Palamau Tiger Reserve (PTR) now has five big cats.
"It has been decided to adopt the Rajgir model to develop a tiger safari in the Palamau Tiger Reserve. After the proposal gets approval from the state board of wildlife, it will be sent to the Central Zoo Authority for its nod," the official said.
PTR Deputy Director Prajesh Jena said at least 150 hectare of land is required for the tiger safari.
Jena said they chose Rajgir Safari as it is one of the first successful models in the country.
"They added features, such as a glass bridge, which have boosted its tourism and provided a sustainable economic growth model for the area. We want to adopt that model," Jena said.
The proposal was discussed during a meeting, chaired by Jharkhand Tourism Minister Sudviya Kumar, in the presence of Finance Minister Radha Krishna Kishore, and senior officials of the two departments here on Saturday.
The cost of the project has been estimated at around Rs 250 crore, it stated.