A citizen forum in the Mayurbhanj district of Odisha has opposed the Odisha government movement to assign 100 land acres near the Similipal Biosphere for a private hotel. | Photo credit: biseranjan rout
A citizen forum in the Mayurbhanj district of Odisha has opposed the Odisha government movement to assign 100 land acres near the Similipal Biosphere for a private hotel.
Bhanja Sena, a sociocultural organization, has approached the National Green Court (NGT), raising objections to the alleged government initiative to assign 100 land acres to a private hotel project in the Laxmiposi village in Shamkhunta Block.
“The tourism project will severely affect the livelihood and religious beliefs of local tribal communities,” said Rakesh Kumar Mohanty, the petitioner.
In addition, he pointed out that the proposed site is home to approximately two Lakh salt and other native tree species.
“The high mound, almost 50 feet high, suggests the presence of minor minerals. Lending this ecological sensitive land for a private hotel could disastrous consequences for the environment,” said Mohanty. Bhanja Sena has urged NGT to intervene and stop the project.
A land verification report presented by the Balidiha Income Inspector supports the requests of the petitioner. He states that the site is densely forest with salt and other large trees, and is frequent by wild animals due to their proximity to the Similipal Tigre reserve. The land of proposal is less than 700 meters from the reserve limit, located within the ecosensible area.
Published – April 18, 2025 9:02 pm ist
