Odisha CM stresses timely completion of projects in Puri

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has asked officials concerned to ensure timely completion of under-construction projects in Puri, which he described as the centre of the state’s “identity and faith”.

Majhi was reviewing the progress of several projects, including Shri Jagannath International Airport, Raghunandan Library, new kitchen of Gundicha Temple, Atharanala Heritage Bridge, beautification of the ancient Satlahadi Math and Kakatpur Maa Mangala Temple, restoration of Satyabadi Vana Vidyalaya and Bakul Bana, and construction of roads, at a meeting in Lok Seva Bhavan here Monday evening.

Majhi said the street vendors evicted from Bada Danda or Grand Road will have to be rehabilitated at a place near Shri Setu.

The CM also stressed the redevelopment of Annapurna Theatre, the beautification of Puri Beach, the smooth conduct of ‘Sandhya Arati’ and the Lord’s ‘Sagar Bije’ (sea visit) ritual, as well as comprehensive improvement of Swargadwar crematorium.

The high-level review meeting, which was also attended by Chief Secretary Anu Garg, also held discussions on connectivity and infrastructure, specifically on widening roads connecting Puri with Brahmagiri, Konark and Bhubaneswar.

Additionally, projects associated with the Sri Jagannath Medical College, Blue Flag Beach, Astaranga Port and the Konark Temple were also reviewed.

He directed all departmental officials to ensure the timely completion of projects.

“Puri is not merely a district; it represents the identity of Odisha and serves as a focal point of faith for millions of devotees of Lord Jagannath across the globe. Therefore, all development projects in Puri have to be world-class,” he said.

“The state government would not allow negligence, delay or irregularity in the implementation of the projects. All departmental officers, district collectors, and superintendents of police have been directed to personally supervise operations on the field and ensure the completion of tasks within the stipulated timeframes,” Majhi added.