Koraput: The state government plans to develop Deomali hill, the highest peak in Odisha and the tallest in the Eastern Ghats, as an attractive eco-tourism spot.
Speaking to reporters, here after visiting Deomali hill, Chief Secretary Suresh Chandra Mahapatra said, “We held a detailed discussion on how eco-tourism can be developed on the Deomali hilltop taking into account the villages surrounding it. Site selection for the purpose has been completed.”
Stating that the Forest department will start work on the project soon, Mahapatra said cottages will be constructed at the eco-tourism spot for the visitors to stay amid natural surroundings. “Villagers are already involved and they are charging fees from tourist vehicles visiting the place. A gate has been constructed. I held discussion with the villagers on how they can provide better service to the tourists,” he added.
Deomali will be developed as the most beautiful location in Odisha in coming years, Mahapatra said. “I feel hundreds of villagers from the surrounding areas will get employment from the eco-tourism spot,” he added.
