Sambalpur : Hirakud reservoir in Western Odisha will be made a tourism gateway with a number of projects to attract the tourists.
Western Odisha Development Council (WODC) chairman and principal adviser to the Chief Minister Asit Tripathy said a comprehensive plan for development of tourism is on the cards to attract tourists from the metro cities of the country.
Tripathy accompanied by Tourism secretary Vishal Dev today visited Sambalpur, Burla and Hirakud to explore the tourism potential of the region.
He said since Jharsuguda airport is operational now, it would be helpful in boosting tourism and catering to the local needs,
Mr.Tripathy said Hirakud has got a lot of potential for tourism development.
“We are now thinking how to exploit it which will also come in a big way for the economic development of the locals,”he said.
Two luxury boats, one floating restaurant, one boat club with an investment of Rs.130 crore will be established jointly by the forest and environment department and WODC
In a unique style, cottages will be built on the island inside the reservoir. Debrigarh sanctuary that spreads across the reservoir and is situated in Bargarh district will also be included in Hirakud tourism concept, he said
There will also be a Yoga park, aquarium and laser show to attract the tourists, Mr Tripathy said.
UNI
