Sambalpur: Income increases from tourism; Debrigarh Sanctuary attracts tourists

Sambalpur: Debrigarh eco-tourism is famous for attracting tourists. On one side, the enticing blue waters of Hirakud Reservoir, and on the other, the hustle and bustle of Debrigarh Sanctuary, teeming with various species of wildlife. In the last fiscal year 2022-23, when 300 thousand tourists came here, two and a half crores of revenue was collected. Last year, the number of tourists increased significantly due to the launch of 3 new packages. Bamboo Island, Sunset Island, and Cattle Island in between the Hirakud Reservoir are popular with tourists for jungle trekking along with jeep safari ‘Thar’, cycling facilities. A revenue of Rs 1.30 crore has been collected during the current financial year up to October. 13 thousand tourists have come so far.

During this period last year, only Rs 1 crore was collected as revenue. However, 8 thousand people came during this period. Among the tourists coming to Debrigarh, 50 percent are from Odisha, while the remaining 50 percent are tourists from various states of India, Europe, and America, DFO of Hirakud Wildlife Ansupragya Das informed. It is worth noting that between the months of October and February, the arrival of tourists is high. 55 local people have been employed by the Department to provide services to the tourists. This year, a safari to Gobindpur Pakhigram, Barbakhra Falls, and Tirtha places will be organized in Hirakud Reservoir.

It is said that a restaurant will be provided for tourists coming to Zeropoint and Sambalpur Zoo will be facilitated. The safari and cruise packages are scheduled from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. The number of wild animals has increased after the translocation of the gypsies in the forest. During the safari, the leopard and various species of wild animals could easily be seen. Last year, the Mahabal tiger, which migrated thousands of kilometers from Chhattisgarh’s Tiger Sanctuary to Debrigarh, was in good health.