With 15 days left for the financial year to close, the state on Tuesday released Rs 5 crore to boost eco-tourism in the protected areas (PAs).

Of the Rs 5 crore, Rs 2 crore has been allocated to Kalsubai Harishchandragad Sanctuary and Chikhaldara and Somthana in Melghat Tiger Reserve (MTR). Besides, Rs 1.39 crore has been released for Jayakwadi, Sahyadri, Bhimashankar and Sanjay Gandhi National Park ( SNGP) in Borivali. 

Similarly, Rs 1.61 crore has been released for PAs including Pench, Bor, Nagzira, Navegaon and Melghat. For TATR, Rs 38 lakh is expected in a day or two. The MTR has received Rs 78 lakh. Most of the amount is expected to be spent on road network.

The PCCF (wildlife) had submitted proposals worth Rs 8 crore for eco-tourism in state national parks and sanctuaries on February 21, 2012. Although the government released the money 20 days ago, sources said proposals from the respective sanctuaries were received late.

The works include road repairs, display boards, interpretation and nature centres etc.