Bhubaneswar: The state government has stepped up efforts to transform the historic Ekamra Kshetra in Bhubaneswar into a well-organised, clean and attractive spiritual tourism destination, with a focus on preserving its rich cultural heritage while providing modern amenities for devotees and tourists.
Law and Works Minister Prithviraj Harichandan Saturday stressed the need for planned and timely execution of all proposed development projects, directing officials to complete the ongoing works at Ekamra Kshetra by January 2027.
Chairing a high-level review meeting at Lok Seva Bhavan here, the minister assessed the overall progress of development initiatives in Ekamra Kshetra. He emphasised that all projects must be implemented without compromising the area’s historical heritage, age-old traditions and religious significance.
He also called for adequate facilities for devotees, tourists and local residents to make the temple city more accessible, visitor-friendly and well-organised.
Ekamra Kshetra, the ancient temple city at the heart of Bhubaneswar, is a living heritage site with a history spanning more than 2,000 years. Centred around the 11th-century Shree Lingaraj Temple and the sacred Bin Dusagar Lake, the area is home to nearly 200 historic structures dating from the 3rd century BC to the 15th century AD.
Some of its prominent religious and architectural landmarks include Mukteswar Temple, Parasurameswar Temple, Ananta Vasudev Temple, Vaital Deula and the Sari-Suka temple complex.
During the review meeting, the minister examined the progress of several development projects around Shree Lingaraj Temple, including parking facilities, a tourist convention centre, public toilets, a Bhajan Mandap and the development of Ananta Basudev Plaza.
The meeting also discussed the proposed construction of a wider pedestrian pathway leading to Bindusagar to improve accessibility and provide greater convenience to visitors. Apart from Ekamra Kshetra, the minister reviewed the proposed establishment of a Chandua Hub at Pipili through the construction of a multi-storey building.
The proposed facility will accommodate shops, a food plaza, an audio-visual hall and public convenience facilities, among other amenities. Harichandan directed the Odisha Bridge and Construction Corporation (OBCC) and the executing agency to complete the Chandua Hub project within the next two years.
The meeting also reviewed plans for the restoration of Anapurna Theatre in Puri. Highlighting the theatre’s cultural and emotional significance for the people of Odisha, the minister called for focused efforts to restore the historic institution and preserve its legacy.
