The Union Government has sanctioned Rs 80 crore for a Coastal Circuit project in Odisha under the Swadesh Darshan scheme, and the work for it would begin soon, said Tourism and Culture Minister Ashok Chandra Panda on Friday.
Replying to questions of BJD MlA Dibya Sankar Mishra and a host of other members, the Minister said the Coastal Circuit would comprise Gopalpur, Tampara, Barakul and Satapada along the 480-km-long coastline.
On performances of the Government and OTDC-owned Panthasalas and Panthaivases, the Minister said 20 out of 80 such facilities are operating under the Odisha Tourism Development Corporation and the rest are running directly under the department. Out of 20 hotels operated by the OTDC, 16 are making profits.
The Minister informed that the department has taken many steps on PPP mode to develop the Panthasalas and Panthanivases in order to optimize their utilities. At present, 25 properties have been leased out on PPP mode and there has been considerable improvement in facilities, hygiene and services after the leasing, the Minister said.