Enhancing Eco-Tourism: Two Nature Parks Inaugurated in Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary

Enhancing Eco-Tourism: Two Nature Parks Inaugurated in Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary

Expanding the horizons of eco-tourism within the Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary, two nature parks were unveiled by the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF), SK Popli, at Govindpur village and Debrigarh Zero Point, adjacent to the Sanctuary and Hirakud Wetland. The inauguration took place in the presence of local villagers and officials from the Hirakud Wildlife Division on a significant Wednesday.

The first of these parks, christened as the 'Hirakud Nature Park' and located in Bargarh district's Govindpur, sprawls across a generous 2.5 acres. With staunch support from the Debrigarh authorities and the State Wildlife Wing, the diligent villagers of Govindpur have diligently developed essential amenities within the nature park. Furthermore, during the park's development, several submerged temples located near the lake have been meticulously renovated.

The array of amenities includes a refreshment kiosk and picnic facilities for visitors, complemented by two charming wooden boats to facilitate serene boating on the lake. Impressively, the entire landscape is maintained as a plastic-free zone, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the village's women. Additionally, the residents of Govindpur have committed to conducting the Mahanadi Alati ritual daily and on auspicious occasions, adding a unique cultural attraction for visitors.

The revenue generated from these facilities will be shared with the community, thereby creating alternative livelihood opportunities for them. Debrigarh authorities have thoughtfully designated a specific area adjoining Hirakud lake within the park, recognizing that the livelihoods of all villagers largely depend on fishing and eco-tourism in the region. In May of this year, Govindpur community members embarked on a two-day exposure visit to Chilika Lake for capacity-building purposes.

Another noteworthy addition to the eco-tourism landscape is the 'Debrigarh Nature Park,' which was inaugurated at Zeropoint. This location serves as the gateway to the Debrigarh Sanctuary from Sambalpur and offers similar visitor amenities. The park will be managed by local forest-dependent communities as an alternative means of livelihood. While the development of the refreshment kiosk, souvenir shop, and boating facilities at this nature park has been successfully completed, an open Orchidarium is currently underway at the site.