Boat races and photography awards mark grand event conclusion
Chilika: Massive infrastructure developments are on the horizon for Asia's largest brackish water lagoon. During the closing ceremony of the three-day Chilika Bird Festival and Boat Racing Competition, Law, Works, and Excise Minister Prithviraj Harichandan announced a significant investment plan of ₹200 crore dedicated to the region over the next three years.
Speaking at the valedictory session held at Mangaljodi and Barkul, the Minister outlined a comprehensive roadmap for transforming Chilika into a world-class tourism hub. This ambitious financial injection will focus on developing fisheries resources, upgrading waterways, improving transport facilities, and constructing modern fish jetties. Minister Harichandan emphasized that initiatives like the newly introduced boat racing competition are vital for attracting lakhs of daily tourists to the site in the coming years.
Thrilling Boat Race Results
New energy was injected into the traditional festival this year through an intense boat racing competition. Fishermen from various societies showcased their skills on the lake's waters. Panidwar PFSC, Chilika, emerged as the champion, securing the first position. Maa Domani Devi PFCS 2 claimed the runner-up spot, while Bindhyagiri PFCS from Khordha took home the third prize.
Celebrating Nature Through Lenses
Cultural appreciation continued with the 6th National Chilika Bird Festival's photography contest. Shifting focus to the avian wonders of Mangaljodi, the competition drew 400 entries from 80 photographers. A curated selection of 35 outstanding images was exhibited for the public. In the Amateur category, Prabir Kumar Das was awarded first place for his exceptional capture of Chilika's biodiversity.
Dignitaries in Attendance
Senior officials joined the celebrations to mark the event's success. Tourism Department Additional Secretary Saroj Kumar Swain, Chilika DFO Amlan Nayak, and the Additional SP of Khordha were present. Local leadership was also well-represented by Chilika Block Chairperson Jyoshna Behera, Banapur Block Chairperson Amarendra Ramsingh, and Vice-Chairperson Arun Pattnaik, among others.
