Bhubaneswar: Puri is set for a sweeping makeover with a series of ambitious development and heritage projects aimed at boosting infrastructure, tourism and cultural preservation.
Key initiatives include the construction of the Shree Jagannath International Airport, renovation of the historic Raghunandan Library, and establishment of a Shree Jagannath Interpretation Centre.
The plans also cover comprehensive development of the Shree Gundicha Temple, creation of a new kitchen facility for preparation of Mahaprasad, and the beautification of revered shrines such as Gopaljiu Temple at Sakhigopal, Satlahadi Math, and Maa Mangala Temple at Kakatpur.
The revival of Satyabadi Bana Vidyalaya on the Gurukul model and restoration of Bakul Bana are also on the agenda.
Authorities will reconstruct the iconic heritage bridge near Atharanala, redevelop the Annapurna Theatre, and accelerate road connectivity to religious sites. The plans extend to the beautification of Puri beach, improved management of the evening aarti at Shree Jagannath temple, smooth conduct of Mahaprabhu’s Sagara Bije ritual, and comprehensive development of Swargadwar.
These proposals were reviewed at a meeting chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi at Lok Seva Bhawan on Monday.
The CM directed officials to ensure time‑bound execution of all projects, stressing rehabilitation of street vendors displaced from the Bada Danda (Grand Road) near Shree Setu.
Chief Secretary Anu Garg, Development Commissioner DK Singh, Additional Chief Secretary to the CM Shashwat Mishra, Puri Collector Dibyajyoti Parida and SP Prateek Singh attended the meeting.