Keonjhar: In a bid to boost tourism, the state government has introduced new facilities, including boating and a tribal museum, at the famous Sanaghagara Waterfall in Keonjhar district. Besides, a special game zone for children has now become a major attraction for visitors.
The newly-launched facilities were inaugurated by School and Mass Education Minister Badri Narayan Patra, Saturday, who said steps will be taken to make the place more attractive.
“The Sanaghagara Waterfall is one of the most popular tourist spots in Odisha. It attracts tourists from all over the state and neighbouring states. Odisha Government is taking all necessary steps to develop its infrastructure and add new facilities to make this place more beautiful and secure,” Patra said.
Keonjhar Sub-Collector, Somnath Pradhan, said tourists can now avail boating facilities throughout the year as a check dam has been constructed. This will ensure availability of water for boating.
Meanwhile, tourists have expressed satisfaction over the makeover and addition of more facilities. “Thanks for the new facilities as they have added beauty to the picnic spot. Every day, thousands of people come here and spend time with their families and loved ones. The gaming zone is a nice initiative especially for the kids. We are having a great time here” said a tourist.
“Earlier, there were not many facilities at Sanaghagara, but now the place is well-maintained. We can know more about the tribes, their art and culture from the tribal museum” said another visitor.
Sanaghagara is an eco-tourism spot, located only 5km away from Keonjhar town on the Keonjhar-Sambalpur National Highway.
The forest department had inaugurated an Eco-tourism Centre at Anjara near Sanaghagara Waterfall August 6, 2017. Five restrooms with solar lighting were set up at a cost of over Rs 1 crore for the safety of tourists.
PNN