Lucknow, March 6 (NationPress) The Sarus Crane, recognized as the tallest flying bird in the world, primarily inhabits the Gangetic plains and has recently encountered significant threats to its survival. In response, the Uttar Pradesh government has devised an extensive plan aimed at the conservation of this majestic bird, alongside the protection of its natural environments.

The administration led by Yogi Adityanath has unveiled a comprehensive strategy to create a "Sarus Circuit" that focuses on the preservation of the Sarus crane, which is the state bird of Uttar Pradesh, and aims to enhance eco-tourism.

This initiative will be implemented in the wetlands of Mainpuri and Etawah districts, encompassing various wetland regions such as Kirthua, Sahas, Kurra Jarawan, Soj, and Saman in Mainpuri, as well as Sarsai Nawar and Parauli Ramayan in Etawah.

In addition to safeguarding the Sarus crane, the Sarus Circuit will promote eco-tourism activities. The primary goal is to advance both the conservation of the Sarus and the preservation of wetlands while stimulating local tourism. These projects will be executed by the forest department through the UP Eco-Tourism Development Board.

This initiative is expected to generate income opportunities for local communities and inspire residents to take action in protecting the Sarus crane and their wetlands.

The Sarus crane, known as the tallest flying bird globally, is not only the state bird of Uttar Pradesh but also predominantly breeds in the wetlands located in Mainpuri, Etawah, Etah, and Aligarh.

In light of this, the state government is committed to developing the Sarus Circuit for its conservation.

Under this initiative, the Forest Department, alongside the UP Eco-Tourism Development Board, is actively working to conserve shallow water bodies, ponds, and wetlands in the area, making them more conducive habitats for Sarus cranes. Concurrently, eco-tourism ventures are being fostered.

The development plans include essential facilities such as entrance gates, viewpoints, observation decks, boating areas, butterfly gardens, solar-powered lighting, interpretation centers, and parking facilities within the Sarus Circuit. Moreover, visitor centers, eco-friendly toilet facilities, interactive signage, food kiosks, and shops offering One District One Product (ODOP) goods and souvenirs will be established for tourists, allowing them to experience and appreciate the natural habitat of the Sarus crane.

This initiative by the Yogi government not only aims to safeguard the Sarus crane and other birds, such as the grey heron and open-billed stork, but also to enhance the conservation of wetlands in the region. It will contribute to raising groundwater levels, mitigating the effects of global warming, and fostering sustainable development.

The promotion of eco-tourism activities is anticipated to create significant income and employment opportunities for local communities, while also enhancing environmental awareness and sensitivity toward nature among both residents and visiting tourists.