Modi inaugurates Rain Forest, tourism projects worth Rs 426 crore in Gujarat

New Delhi 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated a Rain Forest attraction and tourism and infrastructure projects at Ekta Nagar in Gujarat’s Narmada district, as part of development works worth Rs 426.71 crore unveiled on Rashtriya Ekta Diwas.

The projects coincided with the 151st birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, whose statue at Ekta Nagar has become a major tourist draw. Modi paid floral tributes at the Statue of Unity before attending the programme.

The Rain Forest is among the new attractions planned to strengthen the destination’s appeal beyond the statue. Spread over 47,000 square metres, it brings together vegetation representing India’s Western Ghats, Himalayan region and Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Its features include a 220-metre glass-deck skywalk, waterfall, circular pond, bridges and landscaped walking trails.

An information centre will introduce visitors to rainforest ecosystems, biodiversity and conservation through displays and QR-code material. Facilities for children, including slides, swings and a rock-climbing wall, have also been provided.

The wider tourism package includes an IRCTC hotel, Ekta Cruise, an Eco-Trail, improved visitor amenities, facade lighting and the upgradation of Narmada Ghat. Officials said 23 projects worth Rs 307.83 crore were inaugurated, while foundation stones were laid for eight projects costing Rs 118.88 crore.

The remaining works include road development, eco-tourism facilities and an integrated Cactus and Butterfly Garden. The projects are expected to improve visitor infrastructure, encourage longer stays and create opportunities for local businesses and communities.