Urban Development / Puri Set for Major Transformation as CM Orders Fast‑Track of Projects
Key Points
Odisha CM orders fast‑tracked Shreekhetra projects including airport, Gundicha kitchen, and road widening. Vendors demand suitable relocation, and anti‑drone technology planned to secure Jagannath Temple’s no‑fly zone.
Puri, Oct 13: Odisha Chief Minister has directed fast‑tracked execution of multiple development projects in Puri district, promising a complete transformation of Shreekhetra with a time‑bound blueprint covering temple, beach, and infrastructure upgrades.
During a review meeting, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi instructed officials to accelerate work on the Jagannath International Airport, the Raghunandan Library reconstruction, and the establishment of the Jagannath Interpretation Centre.
He also approved the construction of a new Rosha Shala (kitchen) at Gundicha Temple for Mahaprasad preparation, alongside comprehensive temple development.
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✨CM Majhi emphasised that every development initiative must prioritise local servitors and residents. Plans include beautification of Puri’s beach, bridges, and temple surroundings, as well as a new amusement park to attract tourists.
In the cultural tourism sector, the government will expedite beautification and connectivity works at Sakhigopal Temple, Satlahadi Math of Atibadi Jagannath Das, other prominent monasteries in Puri, and Maa Mangala Temple at Kakatpur.
The Satyabadi Bana Vidyalaya will be revived under the traditional Gurukul education model.
Addressing rehabilitation concerns, the CM ordered immediate relocation of displaced street vendors to the vending zone under Shrisetu. While vendors welcomed the move, they demanded reconsideration, arguing the site was unsuitable.
Around 1,208 vendors have been receiving monthly compensation of ₹35 crore, but they urged authorities to use the funds to establish a more appropriate vending zone.
Connectivity projects under review include widening of Puri-Brahmagiri, Puri-Konark, and Puri-Bhubaneswar roads. The CM also discussed progress on Jagannath Medical College, Blue Flag Beach, Astaranga Port, and projects near Konark Temple.
Security Concerns
Security concerns also emerged after a drone was spotted flying over Jagannath Temple’s no‑flying zone early Tuesday. The drone circled the northern side of the temple for nearly 15 minutes before moving towards Sridanda.
Authorities confirmed plans to introduce anti‑drone
technology to curb repeated violations. The Collector said advanced systems
would soon be deployed to neutralize drones operating within 1.5–2 km, ensuring temple security.