₹200 crore tourism development plan for Satkosia reserve, Hirakud dam

Bhubaneswar: The ministry of tourism has announced an ambitious ₹200 crore initiative to develop tourism infrastructure at Satkosia Tiger Reserve and Hirakud dam in Odisha, aiming to transform these locations into premier tourist destinations.
The development plan allocates Rs 99.99 crore each for both sites, with additional investments through public-private partnership projects, according to a ministry release issued today.
At Satkosia, the project envisions three major tourism hubs - Pampasar-Tikarpada, Baliput-Badmul and Kusang-Sitalpani. These hubs will feature visitor plazas, amphitheatres, bird-watching towers and nature interpretation centres. Two PPP projects worth Rs 20 crore will support hotel development and adventure sports facilities, creating employment for 800 locals.
"The Satkosia project aims to enhance tourist experience while maintaining ecological balance and promoting community involvement," the ministry statement said.
The Hirakud dam development plan includes innovative attractions such as floating hotels, hybrid caravan parks and interactive laser shows. The project will also incorporate wellness centres, museums and adventure parks. An additional Rs 1,800 crore investment through 20 PPP projects is expected to generate over 1,200 jobs in the Hirakud tourism sector.
The ministry's destination development division will oversee the implementation of these projects, focusing on sustainable tourism development and local economic growth. The initiative marks a significant step toward establishing Odisha as a major tourist destination, combining natural heritage with modern amenities.