The Odisha tourism department has engaged the Goa-based National Institute of Water Sports (NIWS) to carry out a comprehensive feasibility study on water bodies across the state and develop safety management plans for water sports activities. This initiative aims to assess the viability of introducing water sports facilities while ensuring tourist safety and sustainable management of the sites.
Scope of the Study
Tourism director Deepankar Mohapatra stated that 24 water bodies spread across several districts have been identified for the feasibility study in the first phase. The proposal includes the preparation of detailed safety management plans for rivers, reservoirs, dams, beaches, and backwaters identified for potential adventure and recreational tourism activities.
Identified Locations
The identified locations include prominent coastal destinations such as Puri beach, Chandrabhaga beach, Gopalpur beach, Chandipur beach, and Paradip beach. Inland water bodies like Bhimkund in Keonjhar, Indravati reservoir in Kalahandi, the Satkosia riverfront in Nayagarh, and the Rushikulya estuary (below the bridge) in Ganjam are also part of the study. Puri district has the highest number of selected locations, including beaches and backwater stretches such as Ramachandi jetty, Balighai beach, and Rajhans Island.
Timeline and Objectives
The department has asked the institute to begin the feasibility assessment and submit the requisite plans at the earliest. Officials said the studies will help determine the usable stretches for water sports activities and identify safety protocols, infrastructure requirements, and tourism potential before projects are taken up for implementation.
Expected Impact
The initiative is expected to strengthen the state’s coastal and eco-tourism sectors and create new tourism circuits centred around adventure and water-based recreational activities, officials added.
