Ethnic tribal cottages to be built in Similipal

The decision was taken in a high level meeting presided by Mayurbhanj district magistrate and collector Rajesh Prabhakar Patil here two days ago, an official said on Friday. Eco-friendly villages involving setting up of cottages made from bamboo and clay would come up at Gudugudia, Barehipani and Nawana inside core area of Similipal, he said.

The idea was mooted in line with Chandurisahi ethnic village resort in Koraput district which remained a centre of attraction for tourists, who love nature. Services of architect who are engaged in developing tribal art and culture would be utilised for preparation of a detailed project report, said another official.

Tribal villagers are residing inside Similipal would be taken into confidence whose services would be vital for the implementation of the project.

Each cottage would be facilitated with toilet, bed, dinning hall, solar lighting arrangement where natural environment will remain undisturbed. The tribal women would also be trained and employed to serve food including ethnic food, he said.

Unique tribal dance and song programs are proposed to be arranged at the site to entertain and educate the tourists of the pristine art and culture of the primitive community. Regular conducted tours are also likely to be arranged in joint collaboration with tourism and forest department.

This move is mainly aimed at desisting tribals from tree felling and wild life hunting which alternatively would generate more income from tourism activities. However, no time frame is prescribed for such an ambitious project where financial allocations shall be made from governmental grants.

Concerned officials had been advised to hold a discussion with local tribals for smooth sailing of the project.