Keonjhar: This mineral-rich district has a number of cascading waterfalls amid lush green mountains that are in no way less striking than any of the high-altitude waterfalls of the country.
Unfortunately, their tourism potential remains untapped due to the laidback attitude of the authorities concerned, a report said.
In the absence of promotions and efforts to develop the sites, visitors often give them a miss, locals said.
The natural flow of rivers and canals in hilly, forested regions of the district has generated waterfalls of various sizes.
A natural waterfall near the famous Khandadhar fall, which has been accorded tourist destination site by the state government, at Kadakala village under Banshapal block is a case in point.
Known as Garjanjhara by the locals, the site situated about 60 km away from the district headquarters town is no less beautiful than Khandadhar.
Tourists visiting Khandadhar would get an opportunity to witness another waterfall of the same scale if the site is developed with proper care, observed many.
Before entering Kadakala village one has to take a left turn and move about eight km to reach Garjanjhara. This is a natural steam of Khandadhar hill which resembles the famous Khandadhar waterfall. The site assumes significance because the water falls from the river across the year. Proper development of the site would enrich the tourism map of the district, locals opined.
The sight of water hitting the rock from a height of 150 metre and creating a foggy environment is to be seen to be believed.
Locals said it is high time the state government took measures for beautification of the site so that the district can attract more tourist footfalls. PNN
