Baripada, Dec 27: Renowned as the second-largest biosphere reserve in Asia, the Similipal Sanctuary, celebrated for its natural beauty, has reopened its gates to tourists on Wednesday following a one-month closure.

Closure of three villages within the Similipal Sanctuary, initiated on November 26 due to resident protests pressing a five-point demand, led to the temporary suspension of tourist activities. With the resolution of the issues at hand, the sanctuary has resumed its welcoming stance for tourists.

A month ago, the Similipal Development Council called for an indefinite closure of the sanctuary during the tourist season, resulting in the Similipal Tiger Conservation Project Authority enforcing the shutdown to ensure visitor safety. The state government incurred significant revenue losses during this period.

Residents of Astakur, Gudugudia, and Berehipani village panchayats within the sanctuary had blocked main roads, leading to multiple discussions with the Forest department and local representatives yielding no resolution.

However, a breakthrough occurred on Tuesday during discussions between the Similipal Development Council and the Similipal Peace Committee at Chahala Street within the sanctuary. The meeting, attended by various officials and residents, saw the withdrawal of the movement after confirmation that construction and repair work on roads and culverts had commenced in response to the villagers' demands.

North Similipal Deputy Director Sai Kiran confirmed the success of the discussions and announced the sanctuary's reopening for tourists starting Wednesday.

Powered by Froala Editor