To celebrate Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav to mark the 75th anniversary of India's independence, the Department of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation, Ministry of Jal Shakti in collaboration with Mahanadi and Eastern Rivers Organization, Central Water Commission (CWC), Bhubaneswar and National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA) in Collaboration with Water Resources Department, Government of Odisha organized an outreach programme under the aegis of “Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav (AKAM)" on the theme " Promoting Dam Tourism" at Iconic Hirakud Dam.
The following activities were performed:
- Awareness Programme on Improved Water Resources Management to People of Hirakud Dam.
- "Tree Plantation campaign" near Hirakud Dam to sensitize common people regarding the role of trees about water conservation, improving water quality and quantity, reducing soil erosion, water infiltration, groundwater recharge and increasing biodiversity in the area.
- The Water Conservation Awareness Program/Rally was organized a day before the Program to spread awareness in Burla Town area.
- A painting competition of school children on the theme of water conservation/ importance of dams towards water etc. followed by a cultural programme by school children and prize distribution was organized.
- Organization of lake festival with the involvement of common people, School Children and local authorities thereby promoting the local traditions/culture & Welcome song- ‘Tuhi Maa Janam Bhoomi, Pavitra Bharat Bhoomi’ by Kala Vikash Kendra Burla / Short Play (Nukkad Natak) on theme ‘Nature Vs Humans’ by artist of Sambalpur University /Cultural Events/ Kala Kenda are performed traditional dances (Sambalpuri and Odishi dance), and theatrical acts /Stage performances etc. A large cross-section of people representing different demographic age groups attended the event.
- Water Sports/ Boating program was organized under the Water Sports category to promote dam tourism, which was conducted at Hirakud Dam Reservoir.
- The event concluded with a serene and spiritual Nadi Arti, a ritualistic worship of rivers. Participants gathered at the bank of Hirakud Reservoir to offer prayers and express gratitude for the life-giving properties of water.
Departmental staff, Participants including students, volunteers, and dignitaries, actively participated in the event with great enthusiasm. Around 450 participants from the neighbouring locality came to participate in the event.