Kolabnagar: Upper Kolab multipurpose project authorities near Koraput district headquarters here would spend Rs14 crore for beautification of the peripheral region during next one year to make it a major tourist destination.
Several measures are being taken on a war-footing to achieve the goal, dam’s executive engineer Pratyush Ranjan Das said. Chief engineer AK Banerjee of the project, who took charge, visited the dam site Wednesday and was seen inspecting the renovation works.
According to reports, roads in the area had not been maintained since 2000. Similarly, recreational facilities like gardens, children’s park, science park and boating facility have been in a shambles due to lack of proper upkeep. However, the newly joined chief engineer realised took initiatives to redecorate the site.
It may be noted that Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, in 2011, had announced Upper Kolab dam as a major tourist site. However, no major initiative was taken to develop infrastructure to accord the status on the spot till Banerjee joined as chief engineer, sources said. The authorities have received Central grant for the drive also, official sources said, adding the work would be completed within a span of one year.
It was learnt that several contractors from different parts of the state have been given work orders to complete the project as soon as possible. Its footfalls would increase in coming days and the site can contribute significant revenue to the state exchequer, officials said. PNN
