Mizoram to invest 20 cr to dev twin Mizo sites

Aizawl, Oct 1: The Mizoram government will invest Rs 2012 crore to develop two sites known for their natural treasures into eco-tourism hotspots here.

The investment plan aims to tap tourism potential and cash in the swelling number of visitors, both domestic and international, who are off late showing great interest in this hilly area of the state, tourism minister Z H Ropuia told UNI.

The minister said the two sites--Chalfilh and Chaltlang--located 40 km from the capital town would be developed.

The Sylvan sites dotted by hills are rich in biodiversity, Mr Rupuia said adding the twin locations would offer a glimpse of region's green treasures and rare species of plants, Mr Rupuia explained.

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

Mr Sanghluna said his plans included dividing Mizoram into three tourism circuits around Aizawl and Lunglei on National Highway 54, Champhai on the border with Myanmar and the starte's Northern belt.

Apart from this, the Centre has decided to allot about 20 crore for developing tourism infrastructure in the proposed circuits.

The funds would be utilised for setting up the region's first Aero-spot project in the capital city, the hub of the state's tourism traffic, he said adding the state government has sought funds from the Centre to set up a flying club, where a 14-seater plan would offer tourists an aerial vies of the town nestled among green hills.

UNI