BHUBANESWAR : The Debrigarh wildlife sanctuary in Bargarh district is poised for a major transformation with the Forest and Environment department approving a detailed project report (DPR) worth `71.19 crore to develop the site into an international eco-tourism destination.
Sharing the information on social media platform X on Thursday, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said the project would not only showcase Debrigarh’s natural beauty on a global platform but also strengthen wildlife conservation efforts. The proposed eco-tourism model is expected to boost local employment and significantly increase tourist footfall in the region.
Pradhan expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and state Forest, Environment & Climate Change Minister Ganesh Ram Singhkhuntia for the initiative.
Forest officials said funds for the project will be received from the Central government under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment scheme of the Ministry of Tourism.
The Tourism department had earlier planned to implement the project. However, concerns were raised over the move, prompting the government to take it up as an eco-tourism project through the state Forest department.
Sources in the Forest department said apart from the `71 crore, the government has also decided to spend `14.18 crore separately on construction of a 100-km protective fencing around the sanctuary’s boundary. The fund will be sourced from compensatory afforestation fund management and planning authority (CAMPA) or other state allocations. The boundary fencing will play a crucial role in reducing human-wildlife conflict.
PCCF, wildlife Prem Kumar Jha said, “The eco-tourism project will be taken up in a sustainable manner to ensure that forest conservation and community welfare go hand in hand.”
Sources said the state government has directed the departments concerned to initiate further steps under the newly-approved DPR without delay. Authorities believe the integrated project will enhance eco-tourism infrastructure, empower local communities with livelihood opportunities, and reinforce long-term preservation of Debrigarh’s rich biodiversity.