For parties, all roads lead to the suburbs

In recent years, the outskirts of Bhubaneswar have become hotspots for picnickers and party goers and private property owners have capitalised on the natural beauty and tranquillity of scenic locations near Deras and Jhumka dams, along with Chandaka forest, by offering their farmhouses on rent. “These properties, often nestled amidst lush greenery and scenic views, provide an ideal backdrop for picnics, parties and small gatherings. The allure of escaping the busy city life, even if just for a day, has made these locations immensely popular,” Patia resident Dibyajeet Jena said.

Gobardhan Swain, a trader from Patia, said many owners provide basic amenities such as utensils and cooking facilities, allowing visitors to prepare their meals on-site. “This not only adds a personal touch to the experience but also makes it more economical. The user fee charged for these services varies, depending on the facilities provided and the size of the group,” he added.

However, some property owners have taken this concept a step further, transforming their spaces into full-fledged venues that rival resorts and restaurants. “These owners offer comprehensive packages that include food and beverages. By providing everything from barbecue setups to fully catered meals, they ensure that guests can focus solely on enjoying their time without worrying about logistics,” Ajay Kumar Barik, an IT professional and resident of Shree Vihar, said.

Property owners, many of whom are local residents, have found a lucrative source of income by tapping into the tourism and hospitality market. Nirmal Samantaray, a resident of Mendhasal village, has allowed people to use his land at Deras for picnics and organising feasts. “The rise of these private party venues has had a positive impact on the local economy,” he added.

However, this trend is not without its challenges. The increased footfall in these areas has raised concerns about environmental sustainability and the preservation of natural resources. “Property owners and visitors should adopt eco-friendly practices to minimise their impact on the environment. This includes proper waste management, responsible use of water resources and efforts to maintain the natural beauty of the surroundings,” Chittaranjan Behera, a resident of Old Town, said.