BHUBANESWAR: The Satkosia Tiger Reserve (STR) authorities have selected two more sites to be developed into eco-tourism hubs. The wildlife wing of the forest department is likely to send a proposal to the government within two months in this regard, official sources said.
STR field director Anup Nayak said Baliput in Satkosia Wildlife Division and Badmul in Mahanadi Wildlife Division would be developed as eco-tourism sites. "We are working on the design and the facilities that will be provided to tourists. Since the two sites are located on both sides of Mahanadi river, we will try to introduce boating facilities as well," said Nayak.
The Baliput site is known for its scenic view of the river and a chain of hills on both sides. At present, people visit the spot for picnic and bathing. Badmul is located opposite Baliput and it is also a favourite picnic spot.
STR is, at present, running three ecotourism sites at Tarva, Tikarpada and Anshupa, which are witnessing impressive tourist footfall.
In November last year, the authorities set up facilities for tent accommodation at Tarva. "Because of eco-tourism activities involving local communities, poaching and illegal fishing have been checked. The forest dependence of villagers living in buffer and core areas has also gone down considerably," Nayak added.
Poaching and illegal fishing are common at Baliput and Badmul. "Our focus will be to create eco-tourism facilities and involve the villagers in it so that they will start reposing faith in the forest department and stop poaching activities," said Anshu Pragyan Das, divisional forest officer, Mahanadi wildlife division.
A senior forest officer said that like the Tarva site, tents can be put up for the tourists at the two new selected sites. "Creating makeshift accommodation on the sand at both the locations is on the cards. If the government gives the go ahead, we will use funds from the annual action plan," said the officer. He added that the tents would have toilet facilities.
