Odisha Approves Rs 100 Crore DPR to Boost Eco-Tourism at Satkosia Tiger Reserve

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has approved a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the expansion of eco-tourism infrastructure at the Satkosia Tiger Reserve, with a proposed investment of around Rs 100 crore. The move is aimed at promoting nature-based tourism while ensuring strict adherence to wildlife conservation norms.

The initiative focuses on developing modern, visitor-friendly facilities within the reserve to attract more tourists and wildlife enthusiasts without disturbing the fragile ecosystem. Authorities have identified six priority locations for the upgrades — Purunakote, Jagannathpur, Tikarpada, Baliput, Kusang, and Chamundia. These sites will function as key entry points and activity hubs for visitors.

Planned infrastructure includes food courts, designated bonfire areas, elevated watchtowers for wildlife observation, river-view decks, and other supporting amenities designed to enhance the overall visitor experience. Officials said the facilities will be developed with an emphasis on sustainability and minimal ecological impact.

The project will be implemented in line with national tiger conservation guidelines and directives of the Supreme Court to ensure that tourism activities do not compromise wildlife habitats.

Spread across more than 1,136 square kilometres over multiple districts, Satkosia Tiger Reserve is known for its rich biodiversity, including tigers, elephants, and several rare species of flora and fauna. With the proposed upgrades, the state government aims to position Satkosia as a leading eco-tourism destination in Odisha while balancing conservation and community development.