Nature reserve far away from completion

Gurvinder Singh

Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, November 30

If the “Nature Reserve” project at Mattewara forest had not missed deadlines, then the reserve created two years ago would have been bustling with animals, nature lovers and would have also given a fillip to tourism.

At present, incomplete concrete structures, absence of pathway to the reserve, unfinished butterfly garden and lack of interpretation centre among others present a sorry state of affairs.

The “Nature Reserve” was to come up on around 2,000 acre land belonging to Mattewara forest and the adjoining Jaspal Khadam forest. The boundary wall was constructed around two years ago.

Incomplete butterfly and botanical garden show lackadaisical attitude of authorities concerned. Several species of trees and plants were planted at the botanical garden. Even a small lake was also created. Twenty varieties of shrubs and flowers on which butterflies lay eggs and draw nectar were planted.

Moreover, pathways and water bodies are still incomplete. A lion safari on 50 hectares and rides on Elephants were is yet to see light of the day.

An interpretation centre for providing information related to the forest reserve was also to be set up. However, the building is nowhere near completion.

Khushwinder Singh, Divisional Forest Officer (Wildlife), Phillaur, said the project would be completed. “It has got delayed by a year due to additional permissions required from the Government of India.”

He said, “Earlier, we had sought approval from the Central Zoo Authority, but the case was sent to the Union Government also. Construction of Rahon Road that passes through the forest area has been approved and a chainlink and underpasses for movement of animals would be created. After we receive last installment for building, interpretation centre, ticket counter, gate will be completed.”

Eleven lions would be brought for lion safari and elephant ride would also be made available,” he said.