Sambalpur, Apr 28: Sambalpur’s iconic Hirakud Dam is set to emerge as a world-class tourist destination with the launch of the ambitious Water Symphony Laser Show.

This mega project, backed by Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s initiative and a central government grant of ₹100 crore, promises to transform the region’s tourism landscape.

The project site has already been identified, and construction work is underway. With an investment of ₹25 crore, the laser show will combine dazzling lights and synchronized water displays, offering visitors a mesmerizing spectacle.

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To accommodate the expected surge in tourists, a grand viewing gallery is also being built. Senior officials from the district administration and tourism department have inspected the site to ensure smooth progress.

Beyond the laser show, Sambalpur is witnessing parallel developments aimed at enriching visitor experiences. Since November, work has been in full swing on the Arrival Plaza and the Hirakud Museum near the powerhouse.

The museum will narrate the history of Hirakud Dam’s construction and the poignant stories of displacement, giving tourists a deeper cultural and emotional connection to the site.

During his visit on January 22, 2025, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan reviewed the progress and directed officials to expedite the work.

Within just eight months of his blueprint presentation, the central government sanctioned ₹100 crore, marking a significant milestone in Odisha’s tourism development. The entire infrastructure is expected to be ready within the next two to two-and-a-half years.

Once completed, Hirakud will not only be known as Asia’s longest earthen dam but also as a hub of cultural tourism and modern entertainment.

The Water Symphony Laser Show, Arrival Plaza, and Museum together promise to usher in a tourism revolution in Sambalpur, attracting visitors from across India and abroad.