Bhubaneswar: Odisha Law, Works and Excise Minister Prithviraj Harichandan has directed officials to complete key infrastructure and development projects in Ekamra Kshetra, the area surrounding the Mahaprabhu Shri Lingaraj Temple, by January 2027.
The directive was issued at a high-level review meeting chaired by Harichandan at Lok Seva Bhawan here on Saturday to discuss the comprehensive development of Ekamra Kshetra, establishment of the Pipili Chandua Hub and renovation of the Annapurna Theatre in Puri.
The meeting reviewed several proposals concerning Ekamra Kshetra, including development of parking facilities, a tourist conference centre, toilets, a Bhajan Mandap and Ananta Basudev Plaza. The proposed construction of a wide pedestrian pathway connecting Bindu Sagar was also discussed.
Emphasising planned and time-bound execution, the minister said Ekamra Kshetra should be developed into an organised, clean and attractive destination for spiritual tourism while preserving its heritage, traditions and religious significance.
He stressed the need to ensure adequate facilities for devotees, tourists and local residents and directed the concerned authorities to complete all necessary construction and development works by January 2027.
Regarding the proposed Chandua Hub at Pipili, the meeting discussed the construction of a multi-storeyed building featuring shops, a food plaza, an audio-visual hall, toilets and other visitor amenities.
Harichandan directed the Odisha Bridge and Construction Corporation (OBCC) and the executing agency to complete the project within two years.
The minister also emphasised the need to renovate Puri’s Annapurna Theatre, describing it as an institution closely associated with the cultural sentiments of Odisha.
Bhubaneswar-Ekamra MLA Babu Singh, Pipili MLA Ashrit Pattanaik, OBCC Managing Director Anupam Saha, BMC Commissioner Chanchal Rana, OBCC CGM Sridhar Rout, representatives of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and senior officials of concerned departments attended the meeting.
