Lucknow: Eco-tourism in Uttar Pradesh is set for a major boost as the state government, under the guidance of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, has prepared an ambitious plan to enhance connectivity, infrastructure, and tourist facilities in and around Dudhwa National Park. The proposals—focused on road, rail, and air access—aim to make Dudhwa one of India’s leading eco-tourism hubs while strengthening the local economy.
According to officials, all proposals will be implemented after state government approval, setting the stage for a transformative eco-tourism experience aligned with the Chief Minister’s vision.
AC Bus Service to Continue Through Eco-Tourism Season
To improve road access, the pilot AC bus service from Lucknow to Lakhimpur, launched earlier on CM Yogi’s instructions, is proposed to be continued throughout the eco-tourism season. The service has been well received for offering comfortable and reliable travel to Dudhwa.
Additionally, new bus routes connecting Palia–Mailani and Bichhiya have been suggested, which would greatly benefit rural communities near the park and provide alternative access points for tourists.
In rail transport, the board has proposed restoring the old Delhi–Lucknow train (via Mailani) with added AC coaches, a move expected to be particularly advantageous for foreign and long-distance travelers.
Air Connectivity on the Horizon: Hindon–Palia Air Service Soon
Strengthening air travel, a tender is being prepared to launch flights between Hindon and Palia under the Viability Gap Funding (VGF) model.
The proposed service will be operated by India-registered companies using single or twin-engine aircraft with six seats. Tourism and Civil Aviation departments will jointly oversee the project. Officials said that after approval, the service will significantly reduce travel time for tourists visiting Dudhwa.
₹226 Crore Road Development to Transform Access
To enhance road connectivity, the Public Works Department (PWD) has proposed multiple projects worth ₹226.82 crore. These include:
- ₹21.14 crore: Widening Palia airstrip road from 3m to 10m
- ₹32.95 crore: 5.7 km widening of Kishanpur Road
- ₹21.6 crore: Interlocking work on Lakhimpur–Bijua–Bheera–Palia road
- ₹134.23 crore: 38.35 km strengthening of the Sisaiya–Dhaurahara–Palia route
The aim is to establish a smooth four-lane road network from Lucknow to Dudhwa. Improved roads will not only make travel easier for tourists but also boost trade and daily mobility for nearby rural and semi-urban populations.
International-Standard Signage and Vistadome Upgrade Approved
To address signage gaps inside the park, a proposal of ₹8 crore has been prepared for installing signboards that meet international and national standards. Sample designs are ready and installation will begin soon after approval.
In another move to improve experiential tourism, ₹19.28 lakh has been sanctioned to upgrade the journey experience of the 82-seater Vistadome coach, which offers panoramic views of Dudhwa’s landscapes.
The Eco-Tourism Board has also proposed adding two additional boat safari services on the Gerua River at Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary, complementing the existing two boats already in operation.
Eco-Tourism Boost and Local Employment Expected
Officials said these proposals will not only strengthen Dudhwa’s position as a major eco-tourism destination but also create new employment avenues for local residents, including youth from tribal communities living near the park.
According to projections by the tourism department, once implemented, these projects could lead to a 30% increase in annual tourist footfall. The expansion of eco-tourism infrastructure is expected to generate fresh economic activity while promoting conservation awareness.
As Uttar Pradesh continues its push toward becoming the country’s eco-tourism leader, Dudhwa National Park stands at the forefront of a model that blends sustainability, accessibility, and community-led development.
