Balangir: An officials' team has visited the historic Kumuda hill in Titilagarh to chalk out plans to develop it into a potential tourist destination.
In the first phase, Rs 40 lakh has to be spent as entry programmes for the project.
District collector Ashish Thakre directed the executive engineer of the works department's Kantabanjhi division to prepare a cost estimate for the purpose. According to estimates, Rs 40 lakh will have to be spent in the first phase as entry programmes for the project. Thakre also asked the authorities concerned to prepare an estimate and action plans for the second phase.
The team that visited the spot on Tuesday also emphasised on the renovation and beautification of nearby the Debandh water body and the Raj Kanwar Park.
Named after a nearby village, Kumuda is a granite hill and an important landmark in Titilagarh town. The Shiv temple on the hill alongside the Debandh and park in the foothills make it a must-visit. Visitors throng the hill during the annual Shivratri Mela. But not much has been done to promote it as a tourist destination.
Local resident Debasish Sahu said the government had recognised the historic Shaivite place in the state's tourist map.
"The government has recognised Kumuda hill as a tourist place due to its potential. The pond and the park add to its beauty. But nothing has been done to develop the potential. This is a welcome initiative," Sahu said.
Girija Dash, another town resident, said the town was abuzz with activities during the Shivratri festival. "The town, especially the hill, wears a festive look during the famous festival. The people who come to the hill face inconvenience as it lacks infrastructure to accommodate so many people," he said.
Titilagarh legislator Tukuni Sahu said a kalyan mandap was being developed on the site.
"Once that is done, the Debandh will be renovated. The Titilagarh municipal council has sanctioned funds for the projects. I have also asked the authority concerned to prepare a plan for renovation and beautification of Raj Kanwar Park," Sahu said.
