BHUBANESWAR, Oct 12: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Monday called for the comprehensive transformation of Puri into a world class heritage and tourism destination, emphasising that modernisation must go hand in hand with the preservation of its religious traditions, cultural identity and local livelihoods.
Chairing a high-level review meeting on infrastructure development, heritage conservation and tourism initiatives in Puri district, Majhi directed officials to accelerate ongoing projects, adhere to deadlines and ensure that development benefits residents, temple servitors, traders and visitors.
Describing Puri as a defining symbol of Odisha’s cultural identity and a major centre of faith for millions of Lord Jagannath devotees worldwide, the Chief Minister said development plans must respect the town’s spiritual significance while improving its facilities to international standards.
The meeting reviewed several major projects, including the proposed Shri Jagannath International Airport, reconstruction of the historic Raghunandan Library and establishment of the Shri Jagannath Interpretation Centre. Plans for a new amusement park were also discussed to diversify tourism opportunities and enhance the visitor experience.
The government has additionally decided to undertake comprehensive development of Gundicha Temple and construct a new kitchen dedicated to the preparation of Mahaprasad, the sacred offering associated with Lord Jagannath.
Addressing concerns over the displacement of street vendors, Majhi directed the immediate rehabilitation of those removed from Bada Danda, the grand road leading to the Jagannath Temple, in the vicinity of Shri Setu. He stressed that urban development should not undermine the economic security of people dependent on traditional businesses and religious tourism.
The review also covered the improvement of important religious and cultural sites across the district. These included Gopaljew Temple at Sakhigopal, Satalahadi Math associated with saint and poet Atibadi Jagannath Das, other prominent maths in Puri and Maa Mangala Temple at Kakatpur.
Plans are also underway to restore Satyabadi Bana Vidyalaya in keeping with the traditional Gurukul system of education. Restoration work at Bakula Bana was among the initiatives highlighted during the meeting.
Several urban renewal and heritage conservation projects were also examined, including reconstruction of a historic bridge near Atharanala, redevelopment of Annapurna Theatre, beautification of Puri beach and comprehensive improvements to Swargadwar.
The discussions further addressed the proper management of the evening Alati ritual and the traditional Sagara Bije ritual of Lord Jagannath, underscoring the importance of protecting established religious practices alongside infrastructure improvements.
Improving road connectivity was another major priority. Majhi reviewed proposals to widen the Puri-Brahmagiri, Puri-Konark and Puri-Bhubaneswar roads to facilitate smoother movement of pilgrims, tourists and local residents.
The meeting also assessed developments concerning Shri Jagannath Medical College, the Blue Flag Beach, the proposed Astaranga port and projects connected with the iconic Konark Sun Temple.
Directing departments to complete projects within their stipulated timelines, the Chief Minister warned that negligence, unnecessary delays and irregularities in implementation would not be tolerated. He called for stronger monitoring mechanisms to ensure that public investments translated into visible improvements on the ground.
Majhi said Puri’s transformation must be inclusive, with particular attention to the needs of temple servitors, business communities and residents whose livelihoods are closely linked to the town’s religious and tourism economy.
He instructed departmental officials, district collectors and Superintendents of Police to undertake regular field inspections and closely monitor project implementation. He also called for coordination among departments and greater accountability to ensure that government initiatives delivered measurable social, economic and cultural benefits.
The meeting was attended by Chief Secretary Anu Garg, Development Commissioner D. K. Singh, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Shashwat Mishra, Puri Collector Dibyajyoti Parida and Superintendent of Police Prateek Singh, who briefed the Chief Minister on the progress of various initiatives.
The state government reiterated its commitment to developing Puri as an internationally recognised heritage and tourism destination while safeguarding the traditions of Lord Jagannath and ensuring the welfare of temple servitors and the wider local community.