TGTDC launches drive to promote eco-tourism among nature lovers

Hyderabad: With an aim of promoting bird watching, biodiversity conservation, environmental awareness and nature-based tourism, the Telangana Tourism Development Corporation (TGTDC) launched its ‘Wings & Wilderness – Nature Walk’ initiative at Ghar-e-Mubarak, Nanakramguda, in the city on Sunday.

The inaugural edition witnessed the participation of 30 birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. To encourage public engagement with nature and create greater awareness about environmental conservation, TGTDC will organise these Nature Walks every Sunday.

As part of the programme, a guided bird watching walk was conducted under the supervision of experts. Participants were introduced to various bird species with the help of pocket field guides.

Experts explained techniques for identifying different bird species, their distinctive characteristics and identification through bird calls. Awareness was also created about native and non-native plant species, the habitats they provide for birds and their ecological significance in maintaining environmental balance.

During the nature walk, participants had the opportunity to spot several bird species, including Shikra, Indian Peafowl, Black Drongo, Green Bee-eater, Kingfisher, Golden Oriole, Asian Koel, Red-vented Bulbul, Red-wattled Lapwing, Indian Silverbill and Grey Francolin, among others.

Speaking on the occasion, TGTDC MD Kranthi Valluru emphasised that birds play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance and conserving biodiversity. She highlighted their contribution to seed dispersal, sustaining natural ecosystems and promoting environmental sustainability.

She stressed the need to create greater public awareness about bird conservation and environmental protection.

She observed that failure to conserve biodiversity and protect bird species today could leave future generations with the opportunity to see several rare bird species only in museums.

As part of the World Heritage Week celebrations, the Managing Director announced that a special birdwatching and heritage walk titled ‘Wings over Heritage’ will be organised on November 22 at the historic Qutb Shahi Tombs in Hyderabad.

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Mouli Mareedu

Mouli Mareedu