Bhubaneswar: Debrigarh wildlife sanctuary in Odisha’s Bargarh district is poised for a major transformation with the Forest and Environment department approving a detailed project report (DPR) worth Rs 71.19 crore to develop the site into a world-class ecotourism destination.
The authorities will be rolling out a series of ambitious projects, including nature meditation camps, elevated log-house tents on wooden platforms, and a spectacular 300-metre canopy walkway rising 100 feet above the forest floor, giving visitors a bird’s-eye view of the sanctuary’s diverse flora and fauna, using the grant.
The aim is to make the sanctuary more attractive to visitors while generating sustainable livelihoods for local communities and strengthening conservation. “These initiatives will not only attract more tourists but also provide jobs to families living around the sanctuary, especially in villages that frequently face human-wildlife conflict,” said Divisional Forest Officer, Hirakud Wildlife Division, Anshu Pragyan Das.
She added that most of the projects will be implemented in the current financial year.
While approving the DPR, which outlines a comprehensive plan focused on sustainable tourism, improved infrastructure and enhanced community-based livelihood opportunities, the department also clarified that the proposed 100-km-long physical barrier along the sanctuary boundary, aimed at reducing human–animal conflict and supporting wildlife population growth, will be funded separately under compensatory afforestation fund management and planning authority (CAMPA) or other state allocations. The barrier will not cover contiguous forest patches or animal corridors, ensuring that wildlife movement remains uninterrupted.
Debrigarh, which launched on Tuesday a rustic ‘homestay’ facility at Dhodrokusum village situated on the foothills of the sanctuary adjoining Hirakud Wetland, will also see 20 eco-friendly tents at “Zero Point” (outside the sanctuary boundary) amidst agricultural fields. The number of village homestays will triple from 5 to 15, allowing guests to experience authentic rural life.
Other upgrades include replacing ageing safari vehicles and cruise boats, revamping the Island Café on the Hirakud reservoir, and improving existing facilities such as the ecotourism booking counter, souvenir shop, and information centre. A striking glass-and-wood meditation centre and library, capable of hosting up to 80 people, will serve as a venue for nature-education workshops, storytelling sessions, and quiet reflection, sources added.
