In a bid to attract more tourists, the State Government has launched water sports on the right dyke of Hirakud Dam near Jhankarani temple in Burla.
The water sports facility was inaugurated by Commerce and Transport Minister Padmanabha Behera and Chairperson of Odisha Tourism Development Corporation (OTDC) Shreemayee Mishra on Thursday.
Bhubaneswar-based Akela Adventure Private Limited has been entrusted to operate and manage the water sports activities. Water sports like jetski, water scooter, speed boat, six-seat banana boat, bumper boat, kayak boat, family boat and paddle boats are available for tourists between 8 am and 6 pm at costs ranging from Rs 100 to Rs 1,500.
The State Government has provided subsidy to the firm for the water sports, said Shreemayee Mishra. Odisha Tourism Assistant Director Hemanta Pradhan said the beauty of Hirakud Dam attracts thousands of tourists from across the region and from neighbouring States. The water sports at the reservoir would be an added attraction for the tourists and boost tourism.