Ecotourism has made success strides with opening of new livelihood opportunities in the local communities. This was known from a high-level review meeting held under the chairmanship of Chief Secretary Suresh Mahapatra on Friday wherein Wild Life PCCF Sashi Paul presented updates for discussions.
Mahapatra approved 10 new spots for development of eco-retreats with night stay facilities and three new spots for development as nature-camps for day tourists. He directed the department to involve local communities in hospitality and upkeep of the spots so that they earn their livelihood and preserve natural environs.
The new eco-retreats approved included Deomali hilltop in Koraput, Jakam of Kalahandi, Nawana of Similipal North, Silviculture garden of Phulbani, Muhana Muhana at Astaranga in Puri, Kotia in Koraout, Khadakhai dam in Rairangpur, Mahendragiri from Ganjam side in Brahmapur, Kanjipani Ghat and Hadagarh dam in Keonjhar.
The new nature camps for day tourists would be developed at Rani Duduma of Koraput, Dhaltangarh of Cuttack and Bhandarpahar near Jhadeswari temple of Nayagarh.
PCCF Paul appraised that as of now, 50 total eco-retreat destinations and nature camps are operating in the State. With the new approvals, the total spots would increase to 63. Online booking facility has also been rolled out. So far, around Rs 95 crore has been invested in development of the eco-destinations.