Glass City to green gateway: Firozabad basks in its new identity | Lucknow News
Lucknow: Known as the Glass City, Firozabad is now carving a new identity as an emerging eco-tourism destination in Uttar Pradesh. The Uttar Pradesh Eco-Tourism Development Board has developed Ruriya Swarooppur village with modern, visitor-friendly infrastructure, placing the district firmly on the state’s eco-tourism map.Developed at a cost of Rs 3.62 crore, the site was shaped into a complete eco-tourism destination where nature, leisure, and local culture come together. The initiative is drawing interest from families, nature lovers, students, and travellers visiting nearby Agra and the Braj region. Tourism and culture minister Jaiveer Singh said the village was planned with visitor comfort and experience at its core. Facilities created at Ruriya Swarooppur include eco-friendly bamboo cottages, landscaped open spaces, an open-air theatre, children’s play zone, gazebos, signage, a guard and information centre, a main entrance gate, and embankment works, making it suitable for relaxed family visits. Along with its natural setting, Ruriya Swarooppur also holds religious significance. The site houses a Shri Ram temple and Swamiji’s cave, while the nearby Rudrani Devi temple further adds to its spiritual appeal, drawing visitors throughout the year. Principal secretary, tourism and culture Amrit Abhijat said the project aligns with the state’s eco-tourism policy, focusing on nature conservation, community participation, and sustainable visitor experiences, while strengthening rural livelihoods and heritage preservation. The development follows the growing popularity of the Rapdi eco-spot, which now attracts hundreds of visitors daily. Encouraged by this response, similar visitor-oriented facilities were created at Ruriya Swarooppur to make eco-tourism more accessible. The minister noted that rising tourist footfall will open new livelihood opportunities for local residents, supporting the rural economy through sustainable tourism. Located close to Agra and major tourist circuits, Ruriya Swarooppur offers an easy extension for travellers visiting the Taj Mahal, Fatehpur Sikri, or the Braj region. Families and eco-enthusiasts can now add a green, child-friendly nature stop to their itinerary while exploring western Uttar Pradesh.
