A proposed tourism development project at Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary in Bargarh, Odisha, has triggered concern among conservationists and policy experts, who fear it may violate wildlife protection norms. The Odisha Tourism Development Corporation (OTDC) recently invited bids to appoint a consultant for preparing a Detailed Project Report (DPR), raising questions about the Forest Department’s role and regulatory oversight.
🏞️ What the Project Proposes
- Development of a 10-acre zone near the sanctuary’s entry gate with 60 eco-friendly temporary rooms and picnic infrastructure
- Construction of 10 temporary cottages for 20 visitors at the Debrigarh Nature Camp (3.5 acres)
- Establishment of 10 homestay units at Dhodrokusum, a “green village” near the Hirakud reservoir
- The sanctuary is part of the Swadesh Darshan 2.0 scheme, aimed at boosting eco-tourism in India
⚠️ Why It’s Raising Eyebrows
- Wildlife norms mandate that any eco-tourism activity in sanctuaries must align with Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) guidelines
- Experts argue that only the Forest Department should initiate such development plans, yet it has remained silent on the current proposal
- The bid opening was postponed due to the absence of domain experts, further fueling skepticism about procedural transparency
“Any kind of project study or implementation will be done in consultation with the Forest Department,” clarified Tourism Secretary Balwant Singh, denying any regulatory breach
🌿 A Sanctuary Under Spotlight
- Debrigarh is widely regarded as one of India’s top eco-tourism destinations, home to Indian bison, leopards, and migratory birds
- The sanctuary’s community-led conservation model has been praised by experts, including G20 Sherpa Amitabh Kant, as a blueprint for sustainable tourism
📌 Why It Matters
- Highlights the tension between tourism development and ecological preservation
- Raises concerns about inter-departmental coordination and adherence to environmental norms
- Sparks debate on the future of eco-tourism governance in protected areas
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