Bhubaneswar: The Mayurbhanj chapter of the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) has urged the state govt to establish a ‘fossil park’ along the Budhabalanga river near Baripada, citing the site’s immense scientific and geo-heritage value.The site, known locally as the ‘Baripada Fossil Beds’, stretches across Satpautia, Usurudhihi, Itamundia and Mukuramatia villages and is believed to contain well-preserved marine fossils dating back 12 to 15 million years to the Miocene epoch.Scientific studies indicate that the region was once part of a shallow marine environment connected to open seas. The fossil assemblage includes shark teeth, rays (batoids), fish remains, molluscs and microfauna, pointing to a highly diverse prehistoric marine ecosystem. Researchers said these findings provide crucial insights into past climatic conditions, marine transgressions and the palaeo-environmental evolution of eastern India.During a recent field visit, INTACH members discovered fossilized remains of crocodiles, turtles, partial skulls and bones of marine creatures embedded in the sandy riverbed. Locally referred to as ‘asura hada’ or ‘demon bones,’ the site is often avoided by villagers due to traditional beliefs.Anil Dhir, convener of INTACH’s Bhubaneswar chapter, said the site holds key evidence of life forms that existed millions of years ago and deserves urgent protection. “Preserving this heritage is not only a scientific responsibility but also a visionary step towards promoting Odisha as a global geo-tourism destination,” he added.Dhir pointed out that while India has 16 fossil parks, four managed by the Geological Survey of India and others featuring dinosaur and vertebrate remains, none focus on marine fossils. “If the Baripada site is granted geo-heritage status, it could become the country’s first Marine Fossil Park,” he added.Rashmi Rajya Laxmi Bhanj Deo, convener of INTACH’s Mayurbhanj chapter, wrote to the state authorities seeking declaration of the area as a state geo-heritage site to ensure its legal protection. She also proposed setting up a fossil park, along with an interpretation center and a curated museum to showcase the region’s fossil diversity.INTACH has also recommended fencing the area and banning sand mining to prevent further degradation. Experts believe the Baripada fossil beds, described as a 12-million-year-old natural archive of Earth’s history, hold immense potential for scientific research, education and sustainable tourism if preserved and developed appropriately.
