SENAPATI: Amid scenic hills and lush greenery, the Douzeze Eco-Tourism Park at Phuba village in Senapati district was inaugurated on Thursday with calls for environmental conservation, sustainable tourism, and community unity.
The park, envisioned as a conservation-based tourism destination, aims to protect the habitat of migratory birds, particularly the Eyebrowed Thrush, locally known as Tyai, which travels from the forests of Siberia and finds sanctuary in the Douzeze range during winter.
The concept note of the park described Douzeze as “more than a migration,” calling it “a story of people, protection, and purpose,” where conservation efforts by the local community helped rejuvenate a once-threatened forest area.
The inauguration programme was attended by several dignitaries, community leaders, civil society organisations, and tourism stakeholders from across the region.
Speaking as chief guest, MLA of 47 Karong AC, J. Kumo Sha stressed the importance of preserving forests, folk songs, and cultural heritage while promoting tourism through collective effort and unity. Highlighting the theme “Living with Nature,” he said tourism could become a major source of livelihood and urged people to prepare for the future by protecting natural resources. He also assured that proposals for homestay facilities with solar support would be considered in the future.
Guest of honour Rolle Roson described the Douzeze range as once being covered with thick unexplored forests that served as a major livelihood source for villagers due to its fertile land and rich natural resources. Calling the site a scenic viewpoint with the potential to become a tourist hotspot, he suggested introducing facilities such as solar lighting, zipline, and cable car attractions. He further urged villagers to preserve trees, beautify the eco-tourism park, and develop small self-paid shops and visitor facilities.
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Chief host Kh. Silas termed the inauguration “a dream fulfilled,” saying the vision for the place was conceived nearly four to five decades ago. He expressed hope that the park would attract tourists from different parts of the state and beyond. Emphasising hospitality and sustainable development, he urged villagers to improve road connectivity, develop homestays, and plant more vegetation around the park. He also highlighted that the park was built by the youth department of the village, reflecting unity and collective spirit among the people.
Chief patron Kh. Sapunii expressed gratitude to all donors and contributors involved in the successful completion of the project. He encouraged the younger generation to continue living in unity, respect elders and preserve traditional practices and values passed down through generations.
The programme was also attended by Phyamai Tourism Ambassador and Miss Shirui 2022 R.H. Dorina, along with officials including M. Sheveine, MCS, SDO/BDO Paomata; S. Plim Reikhenamai, MCS, SDO/BDO Willong; Ngaonii Panii, Jr. MCS, SDC Senapati; and Shanngam S, IFS, Divisional Forest Officer, Senapati, among others.
Representatives from various organisations and student bodies across Senapati district also took part in the inauguration ceremony.
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Built amidst forested hills and viewpoints overlooking neighbouring villages, the Douzeze Eco-Tourism Park is expected to promote eco-tourism while encouraging conservation efforts and community-based tourism in the region