Move to allot 100 acres for private hotel project near Similipal Tiger Reserve opposed

Bhanja Sena opposes Odisha government's plan to allot land near Similipal Biosphere for private hotel, citing environmental concerns.

A citizen forum in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district has opposed the Odisha government’s move to allot 100 acres of land in proximity of Similipal Biosphere for a private hotel.

Bhanja Sena, a socio-cultural organization, has approached the National Green Tribunal (NGT), raising objections to the government’s alleged initiative to allot 100 acres of land to a private hotel project at Laxmiposi village in Shamkhunta block.

“The tourism project will severely impact the livelihood and religious beliefs of local tribal communities,” Rakesh Kumar Mohanty, the petitioner, alleged.

He further pointed out that the proposed site is home to over two lakh Sal and other native tree species.

“The elevated mound, nearly 50 feet high, suggests the presence of minor minerals. Leasing this ecologically sensitive land for a private hotel could have disastrous consequences for the environment,” Mr. Mohanty said. The Bhanja Sena has urged the NGT to intervene and halt the project.

A land verification report submitted by the Revenue Inspector of Balidiha supports the petitioner’s claims. It states that the site is densely forested with Sal and other large trees, and is frequented by wild animals due to its proximity to Similipal Tiger Reserve. The proposed land lies within 700 metres of the reserve’s boundary, located it within the Eco-Sensitive Zone.