Odisha’s Barbara forest set for an eco-tourism push

What is the News?

The Odisha Government is planning to bring the Barbara forest on the ecotourism map.

Note: Ecotourism is defined as responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of the local people, and involves interpretation and education.

What is Barbara Forest?

Barbara forest is located near Chilika lake in coastal Odisha.

It is known as Asia’s largest Teak and Sal forest.

Districts: The forest touches three districts Khordha, Nayagarh and Ganjam of Odisha.

Named After: The forest is named after a British forest officer’s wife, who was killed in a tiger attack in the area 100-odd years ago.

Vegetation: Barbara forests has patches of tropical semi-evergreen forests that contain many uncommon species of plants, ferns, and herbs which are rare in other forests of Odisha. 

Significance: It is said to be the only forest in India that is guarded by the CRPF (Central Reserve Police Force) for protecting natural resources.

Source: This post is based on the article “Odisha’s Barbara forest set for an eco-tourism push” published in The Hindu on 12th April 2022.