The Hindu Business Line : Jungle Lodges to open three more resorts

A resort at the Bhadra Tiger Reserve will be ready for visitors in a few days, according to Mr Vinay Luthra, Managing Director. The elephant camp at Dubare, Coorg will be converted into a regular resort and the Anshi Nature Camp on the Karwar-Dandeli Road will soon be branded and marketed as JLR property.

JLR, which is in its 25th year of existence, is looking at expansion in a phased and eco-friendly manner. A study has been undertaken by the company to identify sites of importance for the eco-tourism industry in Karnataka.

The study, to be ready in four months, will classify these sites as A, B and C. `A' sites are core forest areas where JLR will have the exclusive right to develop its properties, those classified as `B' are on the fringe of the forests where private participation will be encouraged for management contract and `C' sites will be completely developed by private companies. JLR is also offering training and consultancy to other States to develop similar properties. Orissa and Tripura are already seeking this service, while Gujarat and Andamans are in the offing.

JLR, which was the brainchild of the former Chief Minister Mr Gundu Rao, started with a single property at Kabini in 1980. It now operates 10 properties, including three fishing camps. Over 60,000 visitors camped at 200-odd rooms at JLR properties across the State last year.

Mr Luthra said that the company had shown a profit of around Rs 2.5 crore with revenue of Rs 12 crore in 2005. "We're expecting to touch Rs 15 crore in 2006," he said.

The year-long silver jubilee celebrations of JLR, is expected to be inaugurated on June 5, the World Environment Day, by the Chief Minister, Mr Dharam Singh.

On the occasion, two books, one tracing the history of JLR and the other on the great outdoors of Karnataka will be released by the Deputy Chief Minister, Mr Siddaramaiah.

JLR has also announced a 25 per cent discount on all bookings between June 16 and September 30.

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Jungle Lodges to open three more resorts

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