Haryana: Jungle safari, crocodile park planned in Saraswati Wildlife Sanctuary

In a bid to boost tourism and eco-heritage in the region, the Haryana Saraswati Heritage Development Board (HSHDB) has unveiled plans to develop a jungle safari, reservoirs, and a crocodile park in the Saraswati Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as the Seonsar forest.

Spread over 11,000 acres across Kurukshetra and Kaithal districts, the sanctuary is home to diverse wildlife such as wild boars, spotted deer, wild cats, snakes, Nilgai, monkeys, owls and various bird species.

Dhuman Singh Kirmach, vice-chairman of HSHDB, said, “The Board has been making efforts to attract more tourists to Kurukshetra and Pehowa. As part of this, it has been decided to start a jungle safari in the Saraswati Wildlife Sanctuary.”

He said, “There is also a plan to develop two to three reservoirs, which will aid in groundwater recharge and ensure adequate water supply for animals during summers. A crocodile park is also part of the proposed project.”

Highlighting the spiritual importance of Pehowa, he said, “Lakhs of devotees visit Pehowa every year for post-death rituals and festivals like International Gita Mahotsav and International Saraswati Mahotsav. A safari trial held during the Saraswati Mahotsav received a positive response.”

Kirmach informed that a meeting was held with Wildlife Department officials to chalk out the plan. “We’re working closely with the Wildlife and Forest Departments. A detailed proposal will soon be presented to the government as per CM Nayab Singh Saini’s directions,” he said.