Highest Waterfall: Tourism Development Remains Incomplete
Despite being rich in natural beauty and located in remote areas of Nuapada district, these waterfalls attract tourists, but there is a lack of proper road connectivity. These scenic waterfalls, which captivate visitors from within and outside the district, could make Nuapada more prominent on the tourism map if properly developed. However, adequate steps have not yet been taken in that direction.
Due to the neglect of basic infrastructure such as roads and mobile network connectivity, tourism development in the district remains incomplete.
The forest- and hill-surrounded Nuapada district is home to natural waterfalls that are a major attraction for tourists. In the Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary under Komna block, there are 12 waterfalls such as Benia Dhas, Chaul Dhuan, Kharal Dhas, Rupua, Aring, Bakhed, Sapodo, Kabeldara, and Machhlipagar. Similarly, Thipakhol is located in Sinapali block, Kadali Jharan in Boden block, and Godhas and Baghjhola waterfalls are in Nuapada block.
However, there are still no proper roads to reach waterfalls like Baghjhola, Chaul Dhuan, Aring, Sapodo, Bakhed, and Machhlipagar. Tourists have to walk more than 2 kilometers to reach these spots. Visitors face difficulties due to the lack of roads, drinking water, toilets, and mobile network facilities.
On the other hand, due to the efforts of the district administration, some development has taken place at Godhas, Benia Dhas, and Kharal Dhas waterfalls, attracting a large number of tourists from Odisha and neighboring Chhattisgarh. However, no concrete steps have yet been taken for the development of the other waterfalls, leaving many tourists disappointed.
Recently, State Tourism Secretary Balwant Singh visited Nuapada and reviewed the tourism infrastructure. If proper road connectivity, eco-tourism initiatives, safety measures, and basic infrastructure are developed, these sites could attract more nature-loving tourists. This would not only boost the local economy but also increase the government’s tourism revenue.
