With a view to protect and conserve the ecological biodiversity of the area surrounding Brahma Sarovar in village Thana of Kurukshetra and to further develop the area as a tourist destination, Haryana Government has decided to implement project for eco-restoration of Brahma Sarovar Sacred Pond Grove at the village.

Under this project, which is the first of its kind, restoration activities would be carried out in about 100 acres comprising Brahma Sarovar and its surroundings, said Chief Minister Manohar lal, who laid the foundation stone of Swarna Jayanti Brahma Sarovar Community Reserve at village Thana. He also released three turtles of different species into Brahma Sarovar.

The Chief Minister said the restoration of the Reserve would be carried out at a cost of about Rs 7.5 crore.

Besides, a skill development centre would be established on the Reserve where youth and self help groups from nearby villages would be imparted skill development training to make them employable and self-sustaining. They would also be imparted training so that they may act as guides for visitors to the area and inform them about the local flora and fauna, said he.

Highlighting the importance of community participation, Manohar lal also urged the people of village Thana to participate in the conservation of Brahma Sarovar, which is revered as a sacred site.

Accepting the demands of the people, he announced to upgrade the girls’ school in village Thana to class X, besides giving Rs two lakh for repair of road leading from main road to Brahma Sarovar and for providing fodder in the gaushala.

The CM also planted saplings and took a round of exhibition organised by the Forests Department.