By Our Correspondent
SAMBALPUR:Union Minister and Sambalpur MP Shri Dharmendra Pradhan today laid the foundation stone of “Bhimmandal Eco Heritage Site” under Nakatideul block of Sambalpur district. Shri Pradhan said that this historic heritage site will bring the glorious history of Bhimmandal to the public and it will strengthen tourism in Sambalpur.
The Union Minister said that Bhimmandal is not just a tourist destination, but a shining proof of Odisha’s glorious history and ancient civilization. According to archaeologists, the ‘rock art’ on the cave walls of Bhimmandal is more than 10,000 years old. Many ancient tools of the Stone Age have also been found at this site. Efforts are underway to place this rare site on the international tourism map and to give it official recognition by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
Bhimmandal has always been special for its historical perspective, natural beauty and mythological connection. In this context, the Double Engine Government has approved more than Rs 8.3 crore for its development, the work of which has started from today. Soon, access roads, bridges, view points, solar power systems along with all the facilities for tourists and rest houses etc. will be built here. This project will create many new opportunities for the social and economic upliftment of the local people.
Shri Pradhan further said that the Odisha Government’s ‘Home Stay’ policy has plans to provide employment to the local villagers and provide tourists with an experience of Odisha’s traditional rural life. Bhimmandal will be particularly helpful in enriching the cultural economy of this region in the coming days. Shri Pradhan thanked Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and Deputy Chief Minister Parvathy Parida for this initiative.
It is worth noting that while visiting the place on February 25, 2025, Shri Pradhan had promised for its development. He had also written a letter to Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat requesting him to declare Debrigarh-Bhimmandal-Hirakud as a ‘Tourism Circuit’ at a later stage.
