SAMBALPUR:Sept 17 [UDN}: Union Minister and Sambalpur MP Dharmendra Pradhan visited the picturesque Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary in Odisha and reviewed the immense tourism potential of the region. During his visit, discussions were held on strengthening tourism infrastructure and developing Debrigarh into a more attractive and sustainable destination for visitors.
The visit focused on identifying new opportunities for tourism development while ensuring that the rich natural environment and ecological character of Debrigarh are preserved. A preliminary roadmap and draft plan have reportedly been prepared with the objective of giving a fresh boost to tourism-related activities in the area.
Debrigarh, known for its forests, wildlife, scenic landscapes and proximity to the Hirakud reservoir, has significant potential to emerge as a major eco-tourism destination in Odisha. The development plan is expected to focus on improving basic tourist facilities, connectivity, accommodation, visitor amenities and other supporting infrastructure.
During the visit, Pradhan emphasised the need for coordinated efforts to promote the region’s natural beauty and cultural attractions while maintaining environmental sustainability. Better tourism facilities could not only attract more visitors from different parts of the country but also create new livelihood and employment opportunities for local communities.
The proposed tourism development initiative is also expected to strengthen the local economy by encouraging greater participation of people living around Debrigarh in tourism-linked activities. Local handicrafts, traditional products, food, transportation, hospitality and other community-based services could benefit from an increase in tourist footfall.
The preparation of the draft plan marks an important step towards systematic development of Debrigarh as a tourism destination. The emphasis is likely to remain on balancing tourism growth with wildlife conservation and protection of the area’s fragile ecosystem.
Pradhan’s visit has generated expectations among tourism stakeholders and local residents that Debrigarh could receive greater attention under future tourism-development initiatives. With proper planning, improved infrastructure and effective conservation measures, the destination has the potential to become one of Odisha’s prominent eco-tourism hubs.
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