Bhubaneswar: A citizens’ forum in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district has opposed a move by the Odisha to allot 100 acres of land for a hotel, close to the Simlipal Biosphere Reserve that comprises the Simlipal National Park.
The government has identified land at the Laxmiposi village in the Shamkhunta Block for the hotel. It has claimed that the hotel will attract tourism that would lead to socio-economic development in the area.
Bhanja Sena, a socio-cultural organization from the district, has, however, moved the National Green Tribunal (NGT), seeking orders to stay the plans.
“The tourism project will severely impact the livelihood and religious beliefs of local tribal communities,” Rakesh Kumar Mohanty, the petitioner, told The Hindu.
He further pointed out that the proposed site is home to over two lakh Sal and other native tree species. It is within 700 metres from the boundary of the Reserve.
“The elevated mound, nearly 50 feet high, suggests the presence of minor minerals. Leasing this ecologically sensitive land for a private hotel could have disastrous consequences for the environment,” Mohanty is quoted as saying by the newspaper. said.
A land verification report submitted by the revenue inspector of Balidiha also supports the petitioner’s claims. This report states that the site is densely forested with Sal and other large trees, and is frequented by wild animals due to its proximity to Simlipal Tiger Reserve.
