Sambalpur: This time, it’s not just cities or suburban areas, but rural tourist destinations that will be developed. The Odisha government has officially recognized 20 new tourist spots across the state. In an announcement today, the Odisha Tourism Department confirmed that two major tourist sites from Sambalpur district have been selected—Bhima Mandali in Naktideul and Debajharan Waterfall near Jujumura.
Following the recent announcement by Deputy Chief Minister Prabhati Parida in Sambalpur, these locations have been granted official recognition as tourist destinations.
The Naktideul Bhima Mandali and Jujumura Debajharan Waterfall in the Redhakhol sub-division have been selected for tourism development. The state government is preparing to establish Sambalpur as a globally recognized tourist city. Efforts are being made to enhance natural and eco-tourism in the region, ensuring job opportunities for local communities.
Previously, only Sambalpur, Hirakud, and Debrigarh were prioritized for tourism. However, the government is now focusing on hidden natural gems in areas like Redhakhol and Kuchinda. A senior administrative officer stated that the goal is to develop lesser-known tourist destinations and bring them into the spotlight.
BJP senior leader Devendra Mahapatra expressed his happiness over the government recognition of these two sites. He remarked that for a long time, the natural tourist spots of Redhakhol were neglected by the state government. However, within just eight months of the new government, a development plan has been prepared.
The rapid approval of these sites just days after the Deputy Chief Minister’s announcement is seen as a matter of pride. Moving forward, Redhakhol sub-division will be developed as a prominent natural tourism hub. Not just Bhima Mandali and Debajharan, but all tourism spots in the region will receive a fresh new look.
Earlier, under the leadership of Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Santha Kabi Bhima Bhoi’s birthplace in Kandhara was developed as a major site. Now, these two locations will also be transformed into major attractions, giving Odisha’s tourism sector a new identity.
With this tourism boost, employment opportunities for locals will increase, and the overall development of the region will accelerate, Mahapatra added.
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