PALEONTOLOGICAL RESOURCES FOR GEOTOURISM IN BARMER AREA OF WESTERN RAJASTHAN, INDIA: IMPLICATION FOR A NATIONAL FOSSIL PARK DEVELOPMENT

A unique fossil assemblage has recently been discovered from Gehun and Lunu sections of Paleocene Barmer Hill Formation in Barmer area, Western Rajasthan, India. These fossil sites have been identified on the basis of previous studies and on the present work of our research group. Aim of the present paper is to conserve the unique and rare geological materials (Asthenopodichnium fossils) as the only fossil site of such type in India. Spectacular Gehun site is easily accessible as it is located within the Barmer city. In addition, this study will also propose an idea of setting up a national fossil park at Gehun in Barmer city similar to the famous Jurassic Fossil Park of Jaisalmer in Western Rajasthan, India. Geotourism is the best tool for their promotion and conservation with additional value as branding of Paleopark for sustainable socioeconomic development of the region. Recently, field work was conducted to observe the present scenario and to identify the threats to the fossil site. Rapid urbanization, developmental activities, fossil hunting and vandalism of fossils by visitors are the main threats to these sites. Aim of the present paper is also to make further efforts to conserve paleontological sites and to recognize such sites as the significant geoheritage resources of India.