Nagpur | March 28, 2016: City-based PSU Western Coalfields Limited's (WCL) effort to create a green zone within a coal mining belt at Saoner, has found its mention in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Mann Ki Baat' speech. Modi who has been emphasizing on touring different parts of the country in the speeches, said WCL deserves special compliments for creating such a facility, which has emerged as a favourite tourist destination these days.
Talking about the concerns usually raised over coal mining projects he stressed that works like WCL's eco-park at Saoner which has drawn 10,000 visitors so far can change the mindset.
"Normally the very name of a coal mine gives an impression that one should stay away from such a place. The pictures available show that it may not be worthwhile visiting a mining area. The Hindi proverb 'koyale mein haath kalein' also gives a negative view about this business, However, WCL has turned a coal mine into an attractive tourist spot. Developing an eco-friendly tourist circuit in a coal mine area is indeed a novel idea," said Modi.
The eco park was started in November 2015. It was a small attempt to show that coal mines which are always accused of damaging the environment can also contribute to conservation. Located between two mines, the eco-park spread in an area of 15 acres acts like the lungs of this area, said RR Mishra, chairman-cum-managing director of WCL.
"It all began with a children's painting competition held by a bank for which I was invited as a judge. One of the paintings depicting pollution showed a coal mine. That prompted me to do something to change people's mindset. There was a visit of schoolchildren organized by TOI to one of the mines too. It struck me that even mines can be made into places of tourist interest," Mishra told TOI.
The idea was mooted in March 2015 and by November it was open to public. WCL is also conducting tours to open cast mines and witty selected entry given into underground mines. This is because there are several restrictions in an underground mine. For example it is open only to adult males and persons with health complications are also not allowed inside. However, access to an open cast is much easier. The purpose behind this is to give a perspective on the mining sector, said Mishra.
The eco-park which is the major attraction is situated at around 40km from the city. It is a forested route up to 2km from the Saoner town. The park has a water body, bamboo plantation and most of the natural forest has been kept in its original shape. Around 500 visitors come here on weekly basis and the entry, is free, he said.
(Source: http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/)