Discover the Magic of Vanjangi Hills: Easy Access and Unforgettable Adventure Await with New ITDA Road!
The view from Vanjangi hilltop near Paderu, renowned for its panoramic ‘sunrise point’ over a canopy of clouds, is set to become more accessible. The Integrated Tribal Development Agency (ITDA), Paderu, plans to construct a 3-km BT Road between Vanjangi and Kallala Bayalu, reducing the arduous 4.5-km trek to approximately 1.5 km. This development will enhance access to Vanjangi Hills, a picturesque tourist hotspot in Alluri Sitharama Raju district, celebrated for its dawn views over a cloudscape.
Tourists typically commence their trek a couple of hours before sunrise to reach the viewpoint in time. The hilltop is accessible via a three-hour drive from Visakhapatnam. ITDA Project Officer V. Abhishek recently announced the project, highlighting that permissions have been obtained from the Forest Department and funds amounting to ₹2.5 crore have been sanctioned for the road construction.
“Our objective is to complete the road within the next six months, coinciding with the onset of winter. The road will not only benefit tourists but also provide connectivity to the tribal residents of Vanjangi village,” Abhishek stated.
For trekking enthusiasts, the adventure remains partially intact as the last 1.5 km to the viewpoint involves a trek. The ecologically fragile nature of the remaining route prohibits further road construction. A 200-meter portion of this trek is particularly steep, prompting plans to install metal railings for support. These environmentally friendly railings are similar to those used at tourist locations like the Nilgiri Hills in Karnataka.
Additionally, container-based toilets are being set up, and efforts to provide a drinking water facility are underway. However, authorities have decided against establishing canteens or kiosks to preserve the pristine forest environment. Currently, temporary stalls operated by tribal residents in nearby hamlets offer basic provisions to visitors.
Original Story https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/vanjangi-hills-trek-set-to-become-less-daunting-in-coming-months-as-itda-plans-3-km-road/article68371091.ece
Category : Visakhapatnam
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