Now Reading: Odisha’s Badanal reservoir awaits eco-tourism boost amid rising tourist visits
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Odisha’s Badanal reservoir awaits eco-tourism boost amid rising tourist visits
Odisha’s Badanal reservoir awaits eco-tourism boost amid rising tourist visits
Odisha's Badanal reservoir in Rayagada district, surrounded by green hills and blue waters, draws thousands of tourists during picnic season but lacks basic facilities like toilets and proper roads. Built in 1993…
The Story in Brief
Odisha's Badanal reservoir in Rayagada district, surrounded by green hills and blue waters, draws thousands of tourists during picnic season but lacks basic facilities like toilets and proper roads. Built in 1993 for irrigation, the site now attracts visitors from nearby districts and states. A recent visit by Rayagada Collector Ashutosh Kulkarni and tourism officials raised hopes for development. Kulkarni noted a large student population nearby and said the district will write to the Tourism Department after a survey. Local residents demand eco-tourism status and amenities including boating, water sports, and children's parks to boost employment.
The Indian Opinion
Tourism promoters often hype spots like Badanal without addressing basics first. The reservoir's scenic charm is undeniable, but missing roads, signage, and sanitation make it a half-baked pitch. Instead of just announcing 'eco-tourism potential,' the district must show concrete progress: how many tourist toilets built, what transport access planned. A clear deadline for basic infrastructure would separate real intent from routine photo-ops. Until then, 'potential' remains a hollow word for local residents who see visitors come and go but gain nothing.
Sources (2): odishatv.in, odishatv.in (2)
This story was synthesised by AI from the 2 sources linked above.
Updated: this story now draws on 2 sources.
