Karwar (ENS): District Minister R V Deshpande officially inaugurated India’s first ‘Canopy Walk’ near Castle Rock in Joida taluk. The facility will be open for public soon.

Deshpande walked on the canopy walkway, enjoying the rich bio-diversity of the Western Ghats.

A 240-metre walkway at a height of 30-metre above the ground at Kuveshi area was installed jointly by the forest and tourism departments at a cost of Rs 84 lakh.

The project, which was mooted three years ago, faced legal hurdles as conservationists opposed to it saying it would harm the Western Ghats. Later, it was cleared by the Central authorities.

It has become another feather in the hat of Uttara Kannada district and is expected to attract more number of tourists.

Deshpande said: “The canopy walk is not a threat to the environment. It is pro-eco-tourism. It will boost tourism.”

Apart from Malaysia and Australia, only India has canopy walk facility.

“With this, Kuveshi village of Uttara Kannada district has got a space in the world tourism map. Many people will get employment in and around the village,” the minister said. “We should think positively,” he said whilde indirectly attacking those who opposed to the project in the dense forests of Western Ghats.

Chief conservator of forest (Kali Tiger Reserve) O Palaiah told Reporters: “As of now, we are creating some basic amenities near canopy walkway and it will take another 20 days to complete the work. After that, we will allow the visitors to enjoy canopy walk. Within a few days, we will hold a departmental meeting and take a decision of fixing charge for the walk.”