Debrigarh Ecotourism Achieves Record Revenue of Rs. 3.45 Crore with 70,000 Tourist Footfall

Bhubaneswar: Debrigarh Ecotourism has marked a historic achievement by recording an impressive revenue of Rs. 3.45 Crore during the financial year from April 1, 2023, to March 31, 2024. This remarkable feat was accomplished alongside a significant tourist footfall of 70,000 visitors, making it the highest revenue-generating ecotourism destination in Odisha.

The tourist composition at Debrigarh Ecotourism reflects a diverse range, with 50% of tourists hailing from Odisha, 20% from West Bengal, and the remaining 30% from 15 different states across India, along with international visitors from Europe, the US, UK, and Australia.

The success of Debrigarh Ecotourism is not merely measured in economic terms but also in its profound impact on conservation efforts and the socio-economic development of local forest-dependent communities. The initiative has provided year-round employment opportunities to 87 families managing various amenities and services within the ecotourism zone.

The revenue surge can be attributed to the dedication and hard work of these families who oversee 14 night stay cottages, safari tours, cruises, trekking, hiking, kayaking, birdwatching, library services, food outlets, souvenir shops, and the scientific preservation of wildlife habitats such as grasslands, saltlicks, and resting zones for animals.

As a result of these efforts, tourists are guaranteed sightings of various wildlife species including bisons, sambars, deer, wild boars, peacocks, bears, and leopards, with leopard spotting increasing by 95% this year.

Moreover, Debrigarh Ecotourism has taken significant steps towards environmental sustainability by declaring the entire sanctuary and tourism zone as plastic-free areas. From April 1, 2024, all plastic usage has been banned, and eco-friendly alternatives have been introduced for daily use, including jute bags, glass water bottles, and storage bins.

To support this initiative, community members managing ecotourism facilities have been trained in sustainable practices and provided with necessary equipment for waste management and cleanliness.

The implementation of a ‘Zero Plastic’ and ‘Zero Trash’ policy has been embraced by all stakeholders, including safari drivers, eco-guides, and visitors, with extensive awareness campaigns conducted to educate tourists about the harmful effects of plastic pollution.