Sambalpur: Rs. 3.5 Crore Wasted Due to Neglect by Works Department; Budharaja Watch Tower Locked, Tourist Spot Turns into Hub for Miscreants
Watch Tower Locked, Facilities in Ruins
Sambalpur: A watch tower was built on Budharaja hill to offer panoramic views of the city. Alongside it, an open-air gym, amphitheatre, food court, and selfie point were also constructed. The entire project cost around Rs. 3.5 crore. However, due to a lack of coordination between the Tourism Department and the Works Department, the facilities became unusable even before they were opened to the public.
Vandalism and Poor Maintenance
Although the watch tower construction is complete, it was never opened for tourists. As a result, miscreants have broken its glass windows. Climbing to the top is now unsafe, and there has been no attempt to repair the structure. Similarly, the food court has three completed stalls, but all of them remain shut.
The amphitheatre is also in a poor state; electric poles have collapsed, and grass has overgrown in the walking corridor, making the area look like a jungle. The open-air gym remains unused, causing the equipment to rust and decay.
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Lack of Security Turns Spot into Den for Addicts
Since there is no permanent security on the hilltop, the place has turned into a hangout for drug addicts and antisocial elements. Although two home guards from Sambalpur police were posted there in shifts, the security arrangement remains extremely weak. Due to the unsafe environment, even devotees visiting the Budhadeba Temple at the hilltop avoid spending time there.
No Department Ready to Take Responsibility
According to the district tourism officer, the Tourism Department had already requested the Works Department to hand over the project for further development. However, the Works Department has not yet provided the ‘utilization certificate’ or officially transferred the project to either the Sambalpur Municipal Corporation or the district administration.
If the transfer takes place, then a proper maintenance system can be arranged, and staff can be appointed. Either the municipal body or the district administration can decide on the further course of action. Eventually, the plan is to hand over management to the temple committee. However, the Works Department has not completed the official transfer process.
Even after attempts were made to contact officials from the Works Department, no response was received.
Due to the lack of coordination between two government departments, a public project worth Rs. 3.5 crore lies abandoned and neglected. As a result, government funds and public resources are going to waste.
