Man-animal conflict is a reality that affects a large section of both populations across the world. But right here in Odisha is the Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary that should be on your travel bucket list for two specific reasons — to enjoy its breathtaking natural beauty, and to witness a human feat that ended decades of man-animal conflict. "One should visit the Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary to enjoy the view of the beautiful Hirakud Dam Reservoir , the dense jungles and the animals" – Harpreet Kaur, travel enthusiast, Chandigarh How to get there Sambalpur is well-connected by road, rail, and bus.
The nearest airport is Jharsuguda, about 82 km away. Taxis are available to the sanctuary. Sambalpur is the nearest railway station.
The Debrigarh Nature Camp offers pick-up and drop service with prior notice at a cost. For those who like long drives, the sanctuary is approximately 311km from Bhubaneswar over National Highway 57. Why visit the sanctuary? The sanctuary, a 346sqkm biodiversity hotspot located approximately 36km from Sambalpur on the Mahanadi delta in western Odisha, is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including the critically endangered Dhole or Indian wild dogs.
Characterised by dense forests, rolling hills, and the picturesque Hirakud dam reservoir, the sanctuary is a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts . It serves as a critical habitat for several endangered species. As it’s located on a river delta, it’s a treasure trove of varied flora and fauna.
Sambars, (inset) bisons, (far right) peacocks and a host of other animals & birds are common sights at the sanctuary The relocation project Another good reason to visit the sanctuary is to witness the results of a massive voluntary relocation project undertaken by the Hirakud Wildlife Division and the Bargarh District Administration since 2021-22. Altogether 400 families from four villages within the sanctuary were relocated to areas outside the forest. Completed this year, the relocation gave the villagers access to electricity, clean drinking water, healthcare, education, etc, while the forest has reclaimed the vacated land, pushing up herbivore numbers The site where one of the villages was located within the sanctuary The relocated residents now enjoy a better life with access to modern amenities.
The project balanced wildlife conservation with human well-being – Anshu Pragyan Das, DFO, Hirakud Wildlife Division (Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary) Accommodation Debrigarh Nature Camp is the only option for tourists, as the Odisha Forest Department does not permit private establishments within the sanctuary - Arijeet Palit.
