July 2nd 2024.
There is growing dissatisfaction among visitors and locals in Hatadihi block, Keonjhar district as the popular Hadagarh dam has been closed for visitors. This dam, situated on the Salandi River, is a picturesque spot with its lush green surroundings and hilly landscape, attracting thousands of tourists each year. People from nearby districts like Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Balasore, and Bhadrak often flock to this tourist destination to experience its natural beauty.
Budhiram Purty, a tribal leader in the area, expressed his concern about the closure, stating that not only tourists but also tribal people who use the dam road are facing difficulties. The dam area is a popular spot for leisurely walks and picnics, with many small traders depending on the influx of tourists for their livelihood. Even the traders in the nearby Hadagarh market benefit from the tourist activity.
The closure of the dam was a result of a tragic incident on June 12, when two students from Bhadrak drowned while bathing in the river near the zero point area at the end of the dam. The Forest department, responsible for managing the zero point area, has prompted the Irrigation department to lock the dam for safety reasons. However, this decision has caused inconvenience to villagers from nearby Dalki, Pitanau, Mallipashi, and Ratnamara, who have to travel an extra 3 km through the forest due to the closure.
Pradeept Kumar Mohapatra, Assistant Engineer of the Irrigation department, stated that the decision to close the dam was made in accordance with department guidelines and will remain in place until further notice. However, the locals, including Nirupma Nandy, Sarpanch of Hadagarh GP, and Jayanthi Samal of Sadha GP, have demanded an immediate reopening of the dam. Even Anandapur MLA Abhimanyu Sethy has promised to discuss the matter with the Forest and Water Resource departments to find a solution for the early opening of the dam.
While the safety of visitors is of utmost importance, the closure of Hadagarh dam has raised questions about whether it is justified to restrict access to such a beautiful tourist spot. The local representatives and MLA have also highlighted the impact of the closure on the livelihoods of the people in the surrounding areas. The community is hoping for a resolution that will allow the dam to be enjoyed by tourists once again.
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