Nabarangpur, Feb, 28: The Hirli tourist spot located on the outskirts of Nabarangpur town and the Kusumjhar Dam are currently in a deplorable condition due to lack of maintenance. However, there is now a green signal to develop both places into a new tourism corridor.
Earlier, land had been provided for the construction of houses for landless families and fire services personnel. Although roads, an open gym, and a children’s park were constructed in the area, they now remain unused and overgrown with bushes.
Rs 48 Crore to Be Spent; Awaiting Approval
It is learned that the Tourism Department and the Minor Irrigation Department have jointly sent a Detailed Project Report (DPR) worth Rs48 crore 28 lakh 9 thousand to the state government for the development of both locations.
Hirli Mouza comprises 50.15 acres of hill area. After the administration converted 7.40 acres of hill land into homestead category, some vested-interest individuals allegedly encroached upon the land and constructed double-storey buildings.
Earlier, more than Rs 3 crore had been spent in phases for the development of the tourist spot, including the construction of attractive winding roads and an open gym. In a DISHA meeting held last June, discussions were held regarding the development of the Hirli tourist destination. Commerce and Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhushan Jena visited the site and assured development support.
Last August, Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida also discussed the development of Hirli during her district visit and directed officials to prepare a DPR. Even before DPR approval, the State Tourism Department sanctioned ₹7 crore for Hirli’s development.
After the DPR receives approval and necessary instructions from the State Tourism Department, the tender process will begin.
According to District Tourism Officer Jagadish Ray, the Hirli Hill Development Committee formed by the administration has proposed several attractive features, including plantation of Radha Chuda and Krishna Chuda trees, a police control room, bio-toilets, a yoga centre, and a wooden watchtower.
Similarly, plans are underway for overall beautification near Kusumjhar Dam, including the construction of a jetty and 20 seating platforms (pindis).
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