Bhubaneswar: Odisha Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida on Thursday reviewed preparations for the upcoming Eco Retreats at eight destinations across the state, directing officials to prioritise local employment, strengthen tourism infrastructure and ensure adequate safety and healthcare facilities for visitors.
Chairing a review meeting at Tourism Bhawan here, Parida stressed that local youth and communities should be actively involved in the planning and operation of the tourism initiative to ensure that its economic benefits reach people in the surrounding areas.
She called for reliable electricity supply, proper road connectivity and adequate supporting infrastructure at all identified sites, besides well-coordinated operational arrangements to provide a comfortable experience to tourists.
Emphasising the scope for promoting adventure tourism, the Deputy Chief Minister asked officials to explore the introduction of adventure sports and recreational activities wherever feasible. She also called for showcasing Odisha’s cultural heritage through local art, traditions and cultural programmes, with active participation of artisans, craftsmen and entrepreneurs.
Tourist safety was another key focus of the review. Parida stressed the need for CCTV surveillance, adequate security arrangements and basic healthcare facilities, including paramedic services, at the proposed sites.
The Eco Retreats are planned at eight locations — Konark, Sonapur Beach, Daringbadi, Talamali, Kolab, Hirakud, Satkosia and Kusumbandh. Talamali, Kolab and Kusumbandh are new additions to the destinations.
The Deputy Chief Minister said the initiative should evolve beyond a mere accommodation facility and offer comprehensive tourism experiences centred on Odisha’s natural attractions, cultural heritage and adventure tourism potential, while generating livelihood opportunities for local communities.
Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Tourism Department Balwant Singh, Special Secretary Lipsa Das, senior departmental officials, representatives of the Odisha Tourism Development Corporation (OTDC), technical experts and tourism stakeholders attended the meeting.
