From Our Special Correspondent

Daijiworld Media Network

Bengaluru, Feb 25: Popular hill station Nandi hills in Chikkaballapur will be developed as an international tourist destination, Health and Medical Education Minister Dr KSudhakar said on Thursday.

Dr Sudhakar, who is also district in-charge minister for Chikkaballapur, spoke to media representatives after inspecting the ongoing works at Nandi Hills.

"Nandi hills and surrounding places are very attractive. Along with beautiful Flora and Fauna Nandi Hills also has a historical and spiritual significance. This has all the qualities to be developed as an international tourist destination,’’ he said mentioning that the State Government has already sanctioned Rs.10 crore for the purpose.

There was a popular demand from the public for a ropeway since 15 years. Though an international agency earlier agreed for the project, later it was dropped. Now the dream is becoming reality. More than 10-acre land will be allotted in the foothills to convert as a parking area. The work will be completed in 3-4 months, DrSudhakar said.

"Nandi hills is 30 km away from Bengaluru International airport. People can reach here in just an hour from Bengaluru. We are making efforts to develop this area,’’ he said.

The minister said Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa has extended full co-operation in this regard.

Tenders will be called soon to allocate the work order, said the Minister.

Trekking trials to 5 hills surrounding the Nandi hills, eco-tourism, conservation of archaeological monuments, beautification, infrastructure development etc. will be done in the coming days.

The Chief Minister is according to priority for the tourism sector in the coming budget, he added.

It is decided to completely ban use of plastic in the Nandi Hills, he announced.