Pradhan appeals to Centre for Debrigarh-Bhimandali-Hirakud tourism circuit
Sambalpur: Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan wrote a letter to Union cultural and tourism minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat to establish a dedicated tourism circuit encompassing Debrigarh, Bhimamandali, and Hirakud in Odisha, citing the rich heritage, archaeological significance, and tourism potential of these places.
In the proposal, Pradhan requested the tourism minister to personally intervene and declare Debrigarh-Bhimamandali-Hirakud as a tourism circuit. He also urged the engagement of ASI for protection and conservation of the heritage site of Bhimamandali, in the interest of promoting Odisha’s tourism landscape and strengthening India’s position as a hub for heritage tourism.
Bhimamandali, located about 100 km from Hirakud dam, is one of the oldest rock art sites in the state, featuring prehistoric paintings and inscriptions dating back thousands of years. These include depictions of animals, footprints, and honeycomb patterns, offering insights into early human settlements. The site, believed to have links to the Mahabharata, is in a state of neglect, with much of the rock art fading due to a lack of preservation.
Historians and conservationists have long demanded its protection under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). “Bhimamandali’s rock art is an invaluable part of our history. Without immediate intervention, we risk losing this prehistoric treasure forever,” said Deepak Panda, a local historian.
Further, Debrigarh wildlife sanctuary, nestled between Hirakud dam and its reservoir, is home to diverse flora and fauna. Recognised under the ‘Swadesh Darshan’ scheme, the sanctuary holds immense potential for eco-tourism and archaeological research. In addition to that, Hirakud, the world’s longest earthen dam, is a marvel of engineering and a major attraction for visitors.
“The Hirakud region has all the elements for sustainable tourism — heritage, nature, and adventure. A formal tourism circuit connecting to Bhimamandali will boost the local economy,” said Abhisekh Padhee, a traveller.
In the proposal, Pradhan requested the tourism minister to personally intervene and declare Debrigarh-Bhimamandali-Hirakud as a tourism circuit. He also urged the engagement of ASI for protection and conservation of the heritage site of Bhimamandali, in the interest of promoting Odisha’s tourism landscape and strengthening India’s position as a hub for heritage tourism.
Bhimamandali, located about 100 km from Hirakud dam, is one of the oldest rock art sites in the state, featuring prehistoric paintings and inscriptions dating back thousands of years. These include depictions of animals, footprints, and honeycomb patterns, offering insights into early human settlements. The site, believed to have links to the Mahabharata, is in a state of neglect, with much of the rock art fading due to a lack of preservation.
Historians and conservationists have long demanded its protection under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). “Bhimamandali’s rock art is an invaluable part of our history. Without immediate intervention, we risk losing this prehistoric treasure forever,” said Deepak Panda, a local historian.
Further, Debrigarh wildlife sanctuary, nestled between Hirakud dam and its reservoir, is home to diverse flora and fauna. Recognised under the ‘Swadesh Darshan’ scheme, the sanctuary holds immense potential for eco-tourism and archaeological research. In addition to that, Hirakud, the world’s longest earthen dam, is a marvel of engineering and a major attraction for visitors.
“The Hirakud region has all the elements for sustainable tourism — heritage, nature, and adventure. A formal tourism circuit connecting to Bhimamandali will boost the local economy,” said Abhisekh Padhee, a traveller.
