Koraput: Malkangiri district is set to carve a niche on state tourism map, with a high-level technical survey identifying immense potential for water-based adventure tourism across several scenic locations in the district.The two-day survey, conducted on July 11 and 12, was jointly undertaken by Odisha’s tourism department and the National Institute of Water Sports (NIWS), Goa, under the Union ministry of tourism. The expert team assessed the geographical features, water flow and safety parameters of major water bodies to evaluate their suitability for adventure sports such as white-water rafting, kayaking and canoeing.The two-member central team, comprising Sanjay Singh Sambyal from Jammu and NIWS technical officer Jagadish V from Chennai, inspected several proposed sites across the district.“Besides attracting domestic and international adventure enthusiasts, the initiative is expected to create employment opportunities for local youth as guides, lifeguards and hospitality professionals. Ancillary sectors such as hotels, transport and handicrafts are also likely to benefit, providing a fillip to the local economy,” said Malkangiri district collector Prathamesh Arvind Rajeshirke.The district’s water bodies are not only visually stunning but are also naturally suited for adventure sports. “The Upper Saberi gorge and the Potteru hill section offer excellent terrain for white-water rafting. Such natural gradients and water flow conditions are rarely found elsewhere in the country,” Sambyal said.Jagadish said the expansive waters of the Chitrakonda reservoir and the Sileru valley are ideal for kayaking and canoeing. “The calm yet adventurous environment here has the potential to attract tourists from across the country. With proper planning, the region can be developed into a safe and environmentally sustainable eco-tourism destination while preserving its ecological balance,” Jagadish said.Officials said the proposed projects could significantly boost tourism in Malkangiri and strengthen Odisha’s position as an emerging adventure tourism destination.
