Odisha Reviews Major Tourism Projects at Hirakud Under SASCI Scheme

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government reviewed two significant tourism projects planned at Hirakud under the Centre’s Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) scheme on Wednesday. The meeting, chaired by Development Commissioner-cum-Additional Chief Secretary Anu Garg, focused on ensuring timely progress and smooth execution of the initiatives.

The Tourism Department presented the Hirakud Master Plan, detailing the upcoming Water and Light Symphony and the Hirakud Dam Museum. Senior officials discussed site sensitivities, required clearances, and project timelines. The Odisha Construction Corporation (OCC) was directed to complete works on schedule.

The Water and Light Symphony will depict the journey of the Mahanadi River — from the construction of the Hirakud Dam to its role in shaping modern Odisha. The project aims to celebrate the river with the message: “Mahanadi is not just a river, it is us.”

The Hirakud Dam Museum will offer visitors an immersive experience into the region’s history, covering the pre-dam era, recurring floods and famines, the dam’s creation, and the transformations that followed. The museum plans include AR/VR installations, interactive exhibits, and experiential zones to enhance visitor engagement.

Both projects aim to position Hirakud as a key tourism and heritage destination, blending history, technology, and storytelling to attract domestic and international visitors.