Talcher: Even as the Centre and state government are getting revenue of crores from Talcher, hub of coal reserves, it is left neglected without any major developmental works.
Many projects are lying incomplete due to negligence by officials concerned. A glaring example is the condition of Kanhei Jena Eco Tourism project, aimed at conserving green canopy and wildlife, has been lying in cold storage for the last four years.
If completed, the project will become a major boost for tourism in the area. It will attract tourists and will add to the revenue. However, the project sanctioned by the district administration four years back has been left incomplete except for a few infrastructure works.
Covering an area of 2,340 acre of dense forest, the site also has an elephant corridor. Similarly, Brahmani river crosses through Kanhei Jena mountain adding to the beauty of the natural scenery. It is also home to various wild animals and birds. More than 20-30 species of different birds dwell in the region amidst the beautiful landscape filled with waterfalls, dense forest with valuable trees, flauna, flora and a huge dam on the foothill of the mountain. Moreover, the hill is filled with medicinal plants, fruit-bearing trees and bamboo forest.
Keeping in view of all the above reasons, there was a demand to convert the area into an eco-tourism site. After repeated demands, then collector along with higher officials visited the area and later held a meeting for the project work February 11, 2015.
Under the project, the administration proposed to conserve the forest, wildlife and eco-system through plantation and other activities. It was aimed at growing setting up water bodies for wildlife, developing artificial nests, promoting eco-tourism and providing sustainable livelihood opportunities for local villagers.
The administration also decided to arrange boating facilities, childrens park, guest houses and infrastructure development including proper road, boundary walls, drinking water and toilet facilities.
A budget of Rs 8,72,26000 crore was also made for the project. This apart, it was decided to utilise 50 per cent of revenue generated from the project for development of the locals. However, over some reasons, the project hangs in balance since last four years.
Nature lovers sought the intervention of the collector to complete the project. They said the project will attract thousands of tourists and will be a major boost in tourism in the region.
PNN
