Sharmili Mallick

Keonjhar: The district of Keonjhar is home to most picturesque spots and breathtaking waterfalls that attract many tourists and picnickers throughout the year. Though Mahadev Mundia, a hill situated some one kilometre away from Champajhara village under Banspal block of the district is not an abberation in the beautiful landscape; it's an example of how government neglect is affecting its tourism potential.

Despite having all the potential to woo tourists with two waterfalls adding to the enchanting beauty of the hill, the place is still unexplored by tourists. As there is a 'Shiva Linga' on the top of the hill, it has been named as Mahadev Mundia and the hill is also often referred as 'Nimai Jhara' as it is believed that a saint named Nimai was residing in the hills.

"There is no proper road connectivity to the hills. Many people throng the temple up the hill during Makar Sankranti. If the concerned administration takes measures to develop the site, it would attract more tourists," said a villager of Champajhara, Khetrabasi Rana.

Another villager, Pranibandhu Pradhan alleged, "Many people are unaware about the waterfalls here. Lack of road communication is to be blamed."

On the other hand, the district Tourism department has written a letter to the Odisha Government for measures to develop the site to attract tourists.

"The department will recommend the state government to develop Mahadev Mundia in order to promote it as one of the prime tourist spots in Keonjhar district. We will also constitute a committee through the sarpanch to suggest measures for the overall development of the site," informed Keonjhar district tourism officer, Ramesh Chandra Nayak.
 

 

 

 

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