Rivers, Waterfalls & Scenic Beauty

Importance of Rivers

• Agricultural backbone: Over 80% of Odisha’s population depends on agriculture.
• Hydropower: Hirakud, Indravati, and other dams contribute to state electricity.
• Cultural and religious value: Rituals, festivals like Boita Bandana are river-centric.
• Ecozones: Rivers support estuaries, mangroves, and bird sanctuaries (Chilika lagoon, Bhitarkanika).