There has reportedly been a 100% increase in the entry fee to the Botanical Garden at the Selaulim Dam which has taken visitors by surprise. It is learnt that the Goa Forest Development Corporation (GFDC) which maintains the garden had initially affixed an entry fee at Rs 20 per person while children below five years were charged Rs 10. The fees for adults was hiked to Rs 30 some two years ago. However, of late it is learnt that the entry fee has been increased by 100 per cent. While an adult is now charged Rs 60 children need to pay Rs 20 to gain entry to the Selaulim Dam and Botanical Garden. On the contrary, according to visitors and locals, facilities remain same at the Botanical Garden. Imagine a bus load of school children on an excursion to the Selaulim Dam and Botanical Garden having to pay the requisite fees. This is not the proper way for the government to imbibe the love for nature among children. The expenses for maintenance of the garden should be borne by the government and children should gain excess to the garden free of cost.
