Puri: The state government is focusing on a world-class makeover of Puri while preserving its heritage, with Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida directing officials during a review meeting Thursday to expedite development projects in the Pilgrim City and the district.
Keeping in view the abode of Lord Jagannath as deeply associated with the emotions of millions of devotees, developing Puri into a world-class city was the key agenda of the meeting held under the joint chairmanship of the Deputy CM and Law, Works and Excise Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan. During the meeting, Parida said, “For many people across the country, visiting world-famous Puri is a lifelong dream.
Therefore, efforts must be taken at both the government and community levels to transform Puri into a beautiful and attractive city.” She advised officials to accelerate the development process of both the city and the district. Minister Harichandan added that though challenges arise during any development process, strong willpower and proper planning ensure success.
He directed departmental officials concerned to complete the planned development works of Puri city within a stipulated timeframe. The meeting discussed the peripheral development of Shree Gundicha Temple, upgrading amusement parks, land acquisition for the construction of Srimandir Model Gurukul, Sevayat Housing Project, the establishment of an international standard Raghunandan Library and Jagannath Research Centre, the construction of a dormitory at the old police station site, and the development of Atharanala. It was also resolved to incorporate Odisha’s architectural style in new infrastructure, demolish unsafe structures posing threats to Srimandir, use modern equipment in construction, follow guidelines of the National Monument Authority (NMA), and obtain approval from Puri-Konark Development Authority (PKDA).
Those present at the meeting are: SJTA Chief Administrator Arabinda Padhee, Principal Secretary of the Works Department Sanjay Kumar Singh, Puri Collector Dibyajyoti Parida, OBCC Managing Director Sameer Hota, EIC (Civil) Satyabrata Behera, Works Department Advisor Jaya Krishna Das, and several senior officials from various departments.
