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Published on : Tuesday, September 29, 2020
Every dark cloud has a silver lining, and every road leads to a discovery. All that a traveller needs is confidence. The tourism sector was until now thought to be amongst the most sustainable for all-encompassing economic development. However, it proved ironically susceptible to disasters and pandemics.
Odisha, although a pioneer in disaster management, has had to face consecutive blows of Cyclone Fani in 2019 and COVID-19 this year. The key segments having the highest potential – MICE tourism, sporting events, spiritual and festival tourism – were the worst hit.
However, in spite of all this, the state’s strategic focus on integrated development of primary tourist destinations has become better. Be it waterfront developments, hill stations, ecotourism hubs, the Buddhist Circuit, or any of the other mega projects, Odisha has ensured a structured and synchronized approach for each – from professionally developed master plans to disciplined adherence to statutory and other clearances.
Precision about marquee projects like Shamuka Beach Project, Talsari-Udaypur Beach Project and Chandrabhaga Beachfront Development, along with others, has strengthened Odisha’s resolution to achieve big.
Besides the strategic side, Odisha had to think big after Cyclone Fani last year, to bring back tourist activity from its dip, in spite of the successful organization of the Jagannath Rath Yatra in the cyclone ravaged city of Puri. There will be replications of Eco Retreats at five scenic locations in 2020-21 to offer tourists the best experiences in Odisha.
Tags: Odisha Tourism