Douzeze Eco-Tourism Park inaugurated at Phuba village
Source: The Sangai Express

Senapati, May 07 2026: The Douzeze Eco-Tourism Park at Phuba village in Senapati district was inaugurated on Thursday amid calls for environmental conservation, sustainable tourism and community unity.

Nestled amidst scenic hills and lush greenery, the eco-tourism park has been developed as a conservationbased tourism destination aimed at protecting the habitat of migratory birds, particularly the Eyebrowed Thrush, locally known as Tyai, which migrates from the forests of Siberia and takes shelter in the Douzeze range during winter.

According to the concept note of the park, Douzeze represents "more than a migration," describing it as "a story of people, protection and purpose," where collective conservation efforts by the local community helped restore and preserve 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, J Kumo Sha stressed the importance of preserving forests, folk songs and cultural heritage while promoting tourism through collective efforts and unity.

Referring to the theme "Living with Nature," he stated that tourism could become a major source of livelihood for the people and urged communities to safeguard natural resources for future generations.

He also assured that proposals for homestay facilities with solar support would be considered in the near future.

Guest of honour Rolle Roson described the Douzeze range as once being covered with dense unexplored forests that served as an important livelihood source for villagers because of its fertile land and abundant natural resources.

Calling the site a scenic viewpoint with immense tourism potential, he suggested the introduction of facilities such as solar lighting, zipline and cable car attractions.

He further urged villagers to preserve trees, beautify the eco-tourism park and develop self-sustaining visitor facilities and small shops in the area.

Chief host Kh Silas described the inauguration as "a dream fulfilled," stating that the vision for the eco-tourism park 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 appealed to villagers to improve road connectivity, develop homestays and undertake plantation drives around the park area.

He also noted that the park was constructed by the youth department of the village, reflecting the unity and collective spirit of 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 uphold unity, respect elders and preserve traditional customs and values.

The programme was also attended by RH Dorina, Phyamai Tourism Ambassador and Miss Shirui 2022, 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 participated in the inauguration ceremony.

Built amidst forested hills with panoramic views of neighbouring villages, the Douzeze Eco-Tourism Park is expected to promote eco-tourism while strengthening conservation efforts and community-based tourism initiatives in the region.

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