Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government reviewed two major tourism projects planned at Hirakud under the Centre’s Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) scheme on Wednesday. The meeting, chaired by Development Commissioner-cum-Additional Chief Secretary Anu Garg, focused on ensuring timely progress and smooth execution of the initiatives.
The Tourism Department presented the Hirakud Master Plan, outlining details of the upcoming Water and Light Symphony and the Hirakud Dam Museum. Senior officials discussed site sensitivities, required clearances, and project timelines. The Odisha Construction Corporation (OCC) was directed to complete works on schedule.
The Water and Light Symphony will depict the journey of the Mahanadi — from the making of the Hirakud Dam to its role in shaping modern Odisha. The theme celebrates the spirit of the river with the message: “Mahanadi is not just a river, it is us.”
The upcoming Hirakud Dam Museum will offer visitors an immersive experience into the region’s history — covering the pre-dam era, recurring floods and famines, the dam’s creation, and the transformation that followed. Plans include AR/VR installations, interactive exhibits, and experiential zones to make the museum more engaging for visitors.
Both projects aim to position Hirakud as a major tourism and heritage destination, blending history, technology, and storytelling.
