Daringbadi: Rusimal hill, a picturesque abode created by nature, is tucked away amid dense forests and hills under Daringbadi block of Kandhamal district. The Odisha government is keen on developing this pristine place, which is still inaccessible to people.
Daringbadi BDO Gadadhar Patra undertook an arduous journey through hilly terrains from Tamangi village under Hatimunda panchayat Wednesday to survey the locality surrounding Rusimal hill. After trekking through hilly tracks for about five kilometres, Patra reached the base of Rusimala hill.
It should be stated here that the Rushikulya river originates from this hill and meanders through Sorada locality of Ganjam district.
People and devotees from various parts of the state and even outside Odisha manage to trek to this place during Baruni Yatra and take holy a dip. They worship the place of origin of Rushikulya river.
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Locals say, devotees from peripheral areas trudge up hills to offer their prayers at this hallowed place. Locals have claimed that some saints and monks reside in the densely forested area.
“The state government is planning to grant tourist spot status to this sacred hilly spot. Various developmental works will be carried out for beautification of Rusimal hill,” informed the BDO.
Sources said that the district tourism department in a letter to Patra had urged him to collect data about the hills. After that the BDO decided to visit the spot. His is the first ever official visit to the inaccessible area.
“There is need for a lot of development of the area. I will submit a detailed report about topography on the area to the district tourism department. Accordingly, a roadmap of development for the place will be drawn up,” the BDO said.
The BDO’s visit has brought cheers among the locals who have been leading a miserable life in this locality large parts of which are indeed inaccessible.
