Bhubaneswar, Dec 2: The Winter Session of the Odisha Assembly witnessed sharp discussions during Question Hour as Forest and Environment Minister Ganesh Ram Singh Khuntia revealed irregularities in cottage projects initiated by the previous government.

Responding to demands from members for new eco-tourism cottages in forest areas, the minister stated that many cottages built earlier were running at a loss. Out of 51 eco-tourism sites currently operational, only 10 are profitable, while the rest continue to incur losses. He added that feasibility studies would be conducted before approving new projects.

He also revealed that ₹80 crore was spent on eco-tourism and cottages last year, with another ₹80 crore allocated in the current supplementary budget.

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The Forest and Environment Minister also presented alarming figures on human-wildlife conflict in the state. Over the past 10 years, 1,396 people have lost their lives, while 5,609 wild animals have died in clashes. Compensation amounting to ₹6,174.68 lakh has been disbursed to affected families.

To reduce such incidents, the department has undertaken measures including habitat protection, plantation of food-bearing trees, development of grazing grounds, creation of artificial water bodies, fire prevention, anti-poaching camps, bird protection initiatives, deployment of anti-depredation squads, and awareness campaigns.

Another issue raised was the destruction of biodiversity in Bhitarkanika due to illegal hotel construction along the Baitarani riverbank. BJD MLA Dhruba Charan Sahoo questioned the minister on when investigations would be completed. Khuntia confirmed that inquiries had already been conducted and the district administration had stopped the illegal construction. He assured that further decisions on action would be taken soon.

The Assembly session highlighted three pressing concerns: financial losses in eco-tourism projects, rising human-wildlife conflicts, and unchecked illegal constructions threatening biodiversity.

The government has promised stricter monitoring, feasibility checks, and stronger enforcement to safeguard both natural resources and public interests.