Mizo govt to develop twin sites, Centre gives Rs 20 cr

Aizawl, July 10 (UNI) The Mizoram government will develop Chalfilh and Chaltlang in the state as eco-tourism hotspots at the cost of Rs 18.12 crore.

This project has been initiated to draw more tourists, both domestic and international, state tourism minister Z H Ropuia told UNI.

''The sylvan sites are rich in biodiversity,'' Mr Ropuia said adding the twin locations home to rare species of plants, would offer a glimpse of the region's green treasures.

Tourism department director B Sanghluna said the Chalfilh also boasts of exotic avian species such as spotted doves, hornbills, paradise, flycatchres and Blyth's tragapons.

Mr Sanghluna said his plans also include dividing Mizoram into three tourism circuits around Aizawl, Lunglei on National Highway 54, and Champhai on the bordering area with Myanmar.

The Centre has decided to allot about 20 crore for developing tourism infrastructure in the proposed circuits.

''The funds will be utilised for setting up the region's first aero-sports project in the capital city,'' he said, adding that the state government has sought funds from the Centre to set up a flying club, where a 14-seater plane will offer tourists an aerial views of the town.

A number of tourist lodges and resorts would also be privatised in a bid to provide improved facilites on a par with international standards, he said.

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