of barren land which lies between the Saoner and Gondegaon mines near Nagpur in Maharashtra have been developed into an eco-park and a coal mine tourism spot by Western Coalfields Ltd (WCL).

Distance of the eco-mine from Nagpur city. Tourists can visit the depths of the Saoner underground mine and also watch the operations at the Gondegaon opencast mine from a distance.

of the route from the Saoner town leading to the park has been forested. The park itself has a water body, bamboo plantation and most of the natural forest has been kept in its original shape.

visitors come here on weekly basis and the entry, is free. Christened Eco Mine Tourism, the tour, open for the public on weekdays as well as weekends.

minimum age requirement for tourists if they wish to take a ride down the Gondegaon mine with a qualified guide. Medical clearances are required for both the mines.

idea for the mine was mooted and by November it was open to public.

investment in the construction of the eco-park which has been built with in-house material. People can also stay at the guesthouse in the residential colony adjoining the Saoner mine.

other major tourist destinations that are close to these mines: the Pench Tiger Reserve, the Totladoh Dam and Reservoir as are several historic temples