KINNERASANI WILDLIFE SANCTUARY Kinnerasani (Khammam): The captivating beauty of the Kinnerasani wildlife sanctuary, spread across 634 s...
KINNERASANI WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Kinnerasani (Khammam): The captivating beauty of the Kinnerasani wildlife sanctuary, spread across 634 sq km, at Yanambailu under Paloncha mandal, 200 km from the State capital Hyderabad, is a forgotten lot. Despite having huge potential to emerge as a leading tourism place in the State, Kinnerasani is in a pathetic state. In essence, Kinnerasani is blessed by nature and ignored by authorities.
The river, reservoir and the sanctuary had its heydays in late 1970s and early 1980s when the government pumped in huge funds for its development. The picturesque surroundings of the Kinnerasani reservoir were a major attraction in those days. Despite its proximity to Kothagudem Thermal Power Station and other industries, the place which boasted rich flora and fauna besides wildlife was a connoisseur's choice.
A file photo of Kinnerasani reservoir at Yanambailu in Paloncha mandal
Thereafter, it was a 'sorry story'. The treasure trove of bio-diversity had become an orphan with no one to look after it. And it turned out into a hotspot for the ant-social elements and drunkards besides becoming a hub for wandering love couples. The sanctuary here houses about 70 spotted deer besides a few bison and tigers. The reservoir harbours huge number of crocodiles and aquatic species.
Earlier, nature's lovers used to stay at the Glass House (Addala Meda) and nine cottages, constructed by the Singareni Collieries, just a few furlongs away from the Kinnerasani reservoir, which gives a panoramic view of the river banks and the lush greens of the sanctuary. Now, these cottages present a picture of 'lost glory'. The government never looked back at them after the Naxalites blasted them in 2001.
Dilapidated Glass House at Kinnerasani Wildlife Sanctuary
Speaking to The Hans India, district tourism officer Suman Chakravarthy said that proposals have been sent to the Telangana Tourism Development Corporation for setting up of a food court and reviving the boating facility in the reservoir.Referring to the enormous eco-tourism potential of the place, he said that the sanctuary has the potential to emerge as a leading eco-tourism spot in the entire State.
