Amid the demolition drive launched by the Puri district administration for implementing Justice B.P. Das Commission’s recommendations pertaining to the safety and security of world-renowned Shree Jagannath Temple, Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik today appealed the denizens of the pilgrim city to make sacrifices despite being affected due to the massive evacuation.Presiding over a special meeting at the Lok Seva Bhavan here today, the Chief Minister in his appeal said that the terrorists are now targeting various religious institutions and shrines for which it is absolutely pertinent to implement the recommendations made by the Commission for the safety and security of Lord Jagannath’s temple.“I know, some families may get affected by this demolition drive. But, this sacrifice assumes much more significance for the sake of Shree Mandir’s security. We need to keep Shree Mandir secured for our posterity. I wish that you all cooperate considering it as the ‘seba’ (service) to ‘Mahaprabhu’ (Lord Jagannath). Your sacrifice will be remembered ever by the Odia community,” appealed the Chief Minister.He assured, “I promise the affected persons that they will be properly rehabilitated after sacrificing their shops and dwelling houses in the security zone. The State Government will also cooperate in the restoration of the demolished Mutts coming under the security zone.”He further assured that all the Mutts in Puri city will be aided under the State Government’s “Abhada” Yojana for which Rs 100 crore has been allocated in the first phase.
The Chief Minister explained, “I had visited Puri in the aftermath of FANI in May. I felt very much hurt by the havoc wrecked on Mahaprabhu’s holy land. On the very day I resolved to transform the pilgrim city into a World Heritage City,”He further explained that the State Government is very soon going to start various infrastructure development projects in the city at an estimated cost of Rs 265 crore allocated earlier.The Chief Minister announced, “Today, I am sanctioning Rs 500 crore more for the conservation and security of Puri’s heritage. State’s first ever Trumpet Bridge will be constructed in Puri. All the sacred tanks and ponds will be renovated and heritage restored. Steps will be taken for the development of Atharanala. Revival of Musa River will be done and will also be connected with Mangala River. A large lake will be developed over 28 acres of land. Multi-lane road and multi-level parking facilities will be made for the visitors to Puri city.”
“Shree Jagannath is the biggest identity of the Odia community. I would like to seek the cooperation of all as well as the blessings of Lord Jagannath for elevating Puri Dham’s honour and dignity. Lots of greetings and good wishes on the occasion of Janmastami. Jay Jagannath.” stated the Chief Minister
Decisions taken:
1. New link road from Malatipatpur to Jagganath Ballav Matha at a cost of Rs.190 crore by a 1.5 Km. Trumpet Bridge (Shree Setu Project).
2. The Jagganath Ballav Matha will be developed as an attractive pilgrim centre with multi-level car parking, amenities, commercial and meditation space and multi-modal hub at a cost of Rs.180 crore.
3. Musa river will be revived and connected to Mangala river at a cost of Rs.85 crore. Focus will be on restoring natural ecology, recreational activities at river edge, green wage and network of lakes.
4. Atharnala will be developed as an iconic pedestrian heritage bridge with the support of ASI.
5. A lake will be developed on 28 acres of land at a cost of Rs.35 crore.
6. Security zone and Redefining of Mathas – the Mathas of Puri have a traditional link with the temple rituals. The Government is quite careful for seamless continuation of this special tradition. Therefore, the Mathas coming under security zone will be redefined. The CM has stressed on the conservation of ancient artefacts of the Mathas.
7. The shops and houses coming under security zone will be shifted. In addition to the rehabilitation package, the Government will provide house and shop to the affected as the case may be.
8. Many heritage lakes of Puri such as Sweta Ganga, Markanda, Narendra and Indradyumna will be renovated and heritage sites will be preserved The Chief Minister has directed to complete all these projects in two years. The Odisha Bridge and Construction Corporation will take the responsibility of these projects.
The meeting was attended by Minister, Law, Chief Secretary, Development Commissioner DGP, Principal Secretary Finance, Principal Secretary Law, Secretary Works and Chief Administrator SJTA, Puri Collector, Central Range DIG and Puri SP.
