Sundargarh District Pushes for Major Tourism Development
The Sundargarh district administration has initiated a significant push to identify and develop potential tourist destinations across the region. Collector Subhankar Mohapatra has formally written to officials of concerned departments, directing them to conduct site visits and prepare detailed project reports for developing numerous locations as tourist attractions.
Political Push Precedes Administrative Action
This administrative move comes in response to initiatives from local political representatives. Talsara MLA Bhabani Shankar Bhoi, who also serves as the Deputy Speaker of the state assembly, had previously written to the tourism minister advocating for the development of several sites in Sundargarh district.
The extensive list of sites mentioned in Bhoi's letter includes:
- Ushakothi Shiva temple and Sukha Mahadev temple
- Mandira Dam site and riverfront development
- Multiple religious sites including Banadurga temple, Karlaghati temple, and Samalei temple complex
- Natural attractions like Angrapahad, Kanhakund, and various waterfalls
- Areas across Lahunipada and Gurundia blocks requiring development
Similarly, Rourkela MLA Sarada Prasad Nayak proposed developing additional locations including Amko-Simko Shaheed Peeth in Kuarmunda, Rukura dam, Brahmanmara tank, and several waterfalls and dam sites as potential tourist spots.
Time-Bound Action Plan
In his November 4 letter, Collector Mohapatra has set a strict deadline for the concerned departments. Officials have been instructed to submit their detailed project reports within 15 days, indicating the urgency and priority being given to tourism development in the region.
The comprehensive approach covers religious sites, natural wonders, water bodies, and historical locations spread across various blocks of Sundargarh district. This initiative aims to tap into the largely unexplored tourism potential of the region, which could significantly boost local economy and create employment opportunities.
If implemented effectively, this project could transform Sundargarh into a major tourism hub in Odisha, attracting travelers interested in religious tourism, eco-tourism, and adventure tourism while showcasing the district's rich cultural and natural heritage.
