Figure 3.18 Water Bodies in Ganjam District, 2018

3.3.3.2 Waterbodies

There are a number of perennial streams and rivers flowing through this district, flourishing its cultivation-culture and agricultural economy. Among them, the river Rushikulya, Badanadi, Baghua, Dhanei, Bahuda and Ghodahad are the prominent ones that provide opportunities for the irrigation facility. The vast river basin of Rushikulya offers potential for exploration of ground water. These rivers provide opportunity for fishing which is the chief livelihood of many people in the district. Brakish water lagoon Chilika attracts tourists from every corner of country and from around the globe. The perennial streams Nirmaljhar and Taptapani contain medicinal sulphuric water.

Figure 3.18 Water Bodies in Ganjam District, 2018 Source District Irrigation Plan of Ganjam (Odisha) 2018

3.3.3.3 Forest

The district is rich in mountains and forests, some valuable wood like Sal, Teak, Gambhari are found in plenty in the forests. Forest products like Bamboo, Medicinal plants of various types, Jhuna, Mahul, Lakha, Sal leaves influence its economy. The total coverage of the present forest area is 3149.9 sq.km. in Ganjam out of which the area of reserved forests is 1485.69