Cicada Resorts introduces ecofriendly vehicles for safari

Bangalore, Nov 21 (UNI) Keeping in tune with its responsible ecotourism philosophy, Cicada Resorts has introduced forest friendly, state-of-the-art 'Eco-tourer' vehicle for wildlife safari, addressing environmental concerns.

Cicada's move comes close on the heels of Principle Chief Conservator of Forests and the Chief Wildlife Warden of Karnataka Forest Department, Mr A K Varma's recent directive to introduce environment friendly vehicles for safaris in Tourism Zones of National Parks in Karnataka. He had also issued directives to introduce top-covered vehicles instead of using fully open top jeeps to improve visitor safety.

Cicada Resorts has introduced the latest Safari vehicles from Tata Motors. These vehicles were fitted with the latest environment friendly diesel engines, with Euro 3 compliance on emission norms.

As a result, the vehicles make less or no noise and hence do not disturb wildlife. Besides with electronic four wheel drive, the drive would also be comfortable for guests even in rough terrains.

The vehicles have been remodeled and conceptualised by Cicada Resorts, keeping the discerning traveler and international benchmarks in mind Cicada CEO Tiger Ramesh said in a release here.

He said ''providing our guests with world class facilities and experiences is our primary business objective. Complying with environment standards is our primary business responsibility. These vehicles have helped reduce the pressure on carrying capacity of the tourism zone since one Eco-Tourer has displaced two traditional jeeps because of the increase in seating capacity. The vehicles also have retractable covers enhancing the safety of guests.'' Cicada Resorts aimed to be the premium chain of Wildlife resorts in the country. Recently, their first property was commissioned on the banks of Kabini River near Nagarahole National Park. The company was expanding the resort chain across the country.

''We will use three models for this expansion by building our own resorts, taking over existing resorts or leasing resorts in various destinations. The company is targeting to enter areas like Corbett, Kanha, Ranthambore, Gir, Bandavgadh, Wayanad, Mudumalai across the country'' Mr Ramesh said.

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