Khajuripada: Though Pakadajhar waterfall, located at Khajuripada block in Kandhamal, is one of the prominent natural waterfalls of the district, its beauty has been neglected over past several years.
The pristine waterfall, which is a popular picnic spot among residents, remains limited to the local people, with the spot yet to be identified as a tourist site.
A local, who has been living near the place, said no effort was made by the administration to maintain it even though it was one of the few well known waterfalls in Kandhamal. “It is sad to see the waterfall in its present state. It used to be very beautiful,” he quipped.
The waterfall is located just 20 km from district headquarters. One has to go to Panisal square on Phulbani-Boudh road from where they have to reach to Bilabadi panchayat and then trek four kilometers to Kurumuni village, where the waterfall is located.
With water falling from a very high spot, the locale is high on scenic beauty. Most of the locals prefer to go there for spending quality time with families and guests. Every local of Kurumuni village takes their relatives to the waterfall, proudly claiming the waterfall is in their village.
However, the administration is yet to extend a hand in the beautification of the site. The place eludes parking, electricity, drinking water and many such facilities. There is no restshed for tourists. Moreover, the tourist site is not provided with safety and security. Even though the forest department was earlier directed to renovate the waterfall, no steps have been taken. Locals demanded the administration renovate the site and provide it with a tourist tag.
Similarly, there are many beautiful waterfalls in the district that are waiting to be identified and renovated for public use. Locals sought intervention of the administration to upgrade the waterfalls before they dry up.
PNN