Bhubaneswar: Odisha is planning to introduce battery-powered boats in Bhitarkanika National Park as part of efforts to make tourism more environment-friendly and reduce the impact of motorised boats on the park’s sensitive ecosystem.
The move comes amid concerns over noise and fuel emissions from diesel- and petrol-powered boats operating through Bhitarkanika’s waterways. Officials said the quieter, cleaner battery-powered boats would help reduce disturbance to birds and wildlife while allowing tourists to continue exploring the national park through its waterways.
A meeting between the administration and boat owners was held at Dangmal to discuss the proposed transition. The government plans to introduce four to five battery-powered boats in the first phase.
Kendrapara District Collector said boat owners would receive 50 per cent government assistance to purchase the new boats. The subsidy is intended to help operators shift from conventional boats to cleaner technology.
Boat owners, however, expressed concerns over the financial burden involved in the transition. They said a battery-powered boat can cost around ₹1 crore, making the investment difficult even after receiving government assistance.
Operators also raised concerns about the availability of charging stations and the safety of battery-powered boats during storms and extreme weather conditions.
They urged the administration to address these issues and create the necessary infrastructure before expanding the system.
The Rajnagar MLA welcomed the proposed transition, describing it as an environment-friendly step towards protecting Bhitarkanika’s biodiversity. However, he stressed that the concerns of boat operators should be addressed to ensure a smooth implementation.
Forest officials said reducing engine noise and fuel pollution would help minimise disturbance to wildlife and improve the ecological health of the waterways. The initiative is also expected to enhance the experience of tourists visiting the national park.
The administration is now working on plans for charging infrastructure and other operational requirements, while examining the concerns raised by boat operators.
The proposed shift to electric boats is expected to strengthen Bhitarkanika’s image as an eco-tourism destination while balancing tourism activities with the need to conserve its fragile mangrove ecosystem.
