Changer to be Una district’s first eco-village

Rajesh Sharma

Una, October 25

Changer village in Bangana sub-division is set to be developed as the first eco-village of Una district. A sum of Rs 1.5 crore has been sanctioned by the state government for the purpose. The move is part of the Thakur government’s initiative to develop 10 villages of the state as eco-tourism destinations.

Rural Development Minister Virender Kanwar said the project would be implemented by the Una District Rural Development Agency (DRDA) and funds had already been transferred for it. The idea of the project was to promote the serene beauty of the rural areas, besides exposing visitors to the local art, culture, traditions and cuisine, thereby enhancing livelihood opportunities for the locals. 

Kanwar said the village provides ample scope for tourists interested in nature. Changar is located on the banks of the Sutlej River and has good forest cover. Besides, the revered Brahmahuti temple of Lord Brahma is located here, which is the only temple dedicated to the deity in north India, besides another one at Pushkar in Rajasthan. 

The minister said the DRDA had planned to develop a park in the village at a cost of Rs 20 lakh, from where the natural beauty of the river, the hills, green cover and village habitation could be seen. Visitors can also enjoy a walk over the suspension bridge in the village and cross over to the other bank of the Sutlej. 

The village paths would be paved and 215 solar lights would be installed to provide illumination. Also, multi-purpose conveniences and living accommodation would be set up for tourists at a cost of Rs 50 lakh.