Odisha ‘fails to sell’ its scenic beauties to tourists, govt apathy alleged

A long coastline, religious destinations, rich cultural heritage, historical monuments, and diversified wildlife make Odisha potentially one of the best tourist destinations in India.

However, lack of good connectivity, safety of travelers, hotels of international standard, and pollution have posed some of the major challenges that the tourism sector faces in the State. And because of alleged government apathy, these destinations have been left largely neglected.

Gajapati Tourist Spots Cry for Attention

Mankadadian waterfall at Shialti panchayat under R Udaygiri block is one of many tourist destinations in the nature-rich Gajapati district. The waterfall is the confluence of four rivers. The scenic beauty of this spot attracts tourists from all over the State and even beyond. However, a three-kilometre-long stone-filled road dampens their spirit to trek here.

Pushpalata Rout, a tourist who has come to Mankadadian for a feast with her group, said, “The place is really good and enjoyable, but the lack of a motorable road makes it difficult for people to come here. There are no restrooms here. Ladies are having a hard time attending nature’s call. There are no arrangements for the safety of the women too.”

“Road communication is a major hurdle in tourist footfall to this waterfall. The government should make serious efforts to make this place safe for tourists,” said another tourist, Kishan Mahalik.

Scenic Rayagada Wallows in Neglect

Devagiri Shrine in Rayagada

Southern Odisha district of Rayagada is no different. Filled with nature’s abundance, tourist spots in this district are a major attraction for people contemplating a good time with friends and family in the winter. But the story in Rayagada is more or less same as Gajapati.

The Devagiri Shiva shrine in Kalyansighpur block in the district is such a tourist place that has been lying neglected since ages. The shrine is on top of an 800-feet high hill. Though the government has made 536 steps for the people to reach there, it has allegedly forgotten to provide basic amenities like drinking water and electricity supply at the shrine.

“I have visited many tourist places in my life, but never ever seen such a beautiful shrine like Devagiri. But the government should take its tourism potential seriously and provide basic amenities to people here,” opined a tourist Harishankar Swami.

Malkangiri: An Uncared Tourism Hotspot

From the reservoir to the suspension bridge, Hantalguda viewpoint to Tarabu and Luchapani waterfalls, Malkangiri district boasts some of the best tourist destinations in the State. But call it government apathy or lack of willpower, the tourist spots are largely underdeveloped in the district.

“Chitrakonda block is the epicenter of tourism in Southern Odisha. It has many attractions like a suspension bridge, eco park, Chitrakonda block, Gurupriya bridge, Hantalguda viewpoint, and many waterfalls. But they have been lying and neglected,” alleged a local Rabinarayan Padhi.

Another local resident of Chitrakonda, Kamulu Hantal said, “Had the government tried to provide basic amenities for tourists in these spots and developed these, the visitors would certainly have had a good time coming here.”

Modern tourism is commerce-oriented, organized, and intensive. Conducive political scenario, easy transportation, development of basic infrastructure, a friendly environment, and safe and secure journeys are vital for attracting new travelers. While the locals near these tourist spots cry for attention, the visitors rue the government's apathy in developing these spots.