Wide range of water sports now to woo tourists at Odisha’s Hirakud Dam

Sambalpur: In a bid to attract more number of tourists, Odisha Government launched water sports on the right dyke of Hirakud Dam near Jhankarani temple in Burla.

The water sports facility was inaugurated by the Commerce and Transport Minister Padmanabha Behera and Chairperson of Odisha Tourism Development Corporation (OTDC) Shreemayee Mishra on Thursday.

Bhubaneswar-based Akela Adventure Private Limited has been entrusted to operate and manage the water sports activities at the Hirakud Dam reservoir. Water sports like jetski, water scooter, speed boat, six-seat banana boat, bumper boat, kayak boat, family boat and paddle boats will be available for tourists between 8.00 AM and 6.00 PM at costs ranging from Rs 100 to Rs 1500.

Speaking on the occasion, the Minister said that the water sports facility was a requirement of the Hirakud dam. It will attract the tourist footfall to the reservoir.

OTDC Chairperson Shreemayee said, “The State Government has been laying emphasis on development of tourism and attracting tourists to Odisha. The OTDC is also making efforts to encourage the entrepreneurs dealing in tourism.”

“We are delighted that water sports have been launched at Hirakud Dam. The State Government has provided subsidy to the firm for the water sports,” she added.

Odisha Tourism Assistant Director Hemanta Pradhan said that the beauty of Hirakud Dam attracts thousands of tourists from across the region and from neighbouring States. The water sports at the reservoir will be an added attraction for the tourists. It will boost tourism.