Sidhkhol Waterfall to Be Operated Under Eco-Tourism Concept

Initiative Aims to Boost Local Employment and Promote Sustainable Tourism

Raipur : The picturesque Sidhkhol Waterfall, located about 40 km from the Balodabazar district headquarters, is set to be developed and operated under the concept of eco-tourism. In a recent inspection, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Ganveer Dhammasheel directed the Range Officer of Sonakhan to prepare a detailed action plan for the sustainable management of the site.

DFO Dhammasheel emphasized that steps are being taken to enhance tourist safety and improve amenities at the waterfall. These efforts are being jointly undertaken by the Forest Department and the Forest Management Committee of Kukrikona.

As part of the new eco-friendly initiatives, Range Officer Sunit Sahu, along with members of the Kukrikona committee, has launched a plastic waste management system at the site. Under this system, tourists carrying plastic bottles to the waterfall will pay a refundable deposit at the entrance. The bottles will be tagged with a sticker placed in a plastic bag. Upon their return, the deposit will be refunded when the stickered plastic is returned.

Local Participation to Drive Eco-Tourism

The operation of Sidhkhol Waterfall will involve the active participation of the Kukrikona Forest Management Committee, aimed at creating employment opportunities for unemployed youth and local villagers. This initiative will also strengthen forest protection efforts while promoting sustainable tourism practices.

Additionally, plans are in place to engage women’s self-help groups to run a canteen at the site and help manage the ticketing system more efficiently.

This eco-tourism model is expected to enhance the natural appeal of Sidhkhol Waterfall while ensuring responsible tourism and generating livelihood for the local community.