India’s government has made a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the multi-million dollar development of Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) near Mumbai, as it aims to create a world-class sustainable eco-tourism zone to attract international visitors.

Interested parties are invited to submit eco-tourism concepts and activities to offer unique visitor experiences for the 104sq km (40sq m) park. The main attractions in the tourism zone will be tourist huts, a conference hall, cafés, nature interpretation centres, a taxidermy gallery, lakeside promenade and a leopard safari. Nature trails will be developed across the park, including a mangrove walkway and canopy walk, while there will also be landscaping, distillation of lakes and adventure sports areas.

In addition to development of attractions, the park would also get new roads, a drainage system, administrative buildings and water kiosks. For people living in the park, they will be trained as guides and also given priority for jobs created at facilities in the tourism area.

“The park is unique, as it is situated within a metropolis,” said Vikas Gupta, SGNP director. “We want tourists visiting SGNP to get that international feel. So, we are going to invite an RFP for the appointment of a consultant, who will prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR).”

Until the DPR is complete, no cost has been set for the development and no architects have been named.

Mumbai masterplan omits 1,000 buildings from heritage list

India launches RS5bn heritage protection initiative to boost tourism

JHM Interstate Hotels & Resorts plans India exit

Design flaws delay Thiruvananthapuram planetarium opening

Jaipur Zoo mammals ready for new home

Indian zoo staff undergo training in wake of visitor death