Puri: Chief Secretary Suresh Chandra Mahapatra reviewed progress of various development and beautification works during his visit here today.
Mahapatra first visited Swargadwar to study the progress made in development and beautification of the cremation ground which is considered auspicious as it is believed that the deceased person directly goes to heaven from here. The very name- “Swarga” means heaven and “dwar” means gateway, so literary Swargadwar is considered as the ‘Gateway to Heaven’.
“Currently, there are 28 ‘pindis’ in Swargadwar where pyres can be lit for cremating equal number of bodies at a time. It is sufficient for now as 70-80 bodies are cremated daily. Now there are facilities like a restaurant, washing room, etc. for those who come accompanying the body and have to wait,” said Mahapatra talking to reporters here.
It can be expanded if need arises in the future, Mahapatra added.
The Chief Secretary later reviewed the progress of the Shree Mandir Parikrama Project and exuded confidence that it will be completed before Rath Yatra this year.
“The Parikrama project will be definitely completed before Rath Yatra this year and even much before that. You can see how work is being done expeditiously. Khondalite stone is being used for cladding of all structures that are being erected and floor is also being paved with Khondalite stone slabs which will be in complete sync with the Shree Mandir’s style and décor,” Mahapatra said.
He informed that trees will be planted sufficiently as part of the project for pilgrims to take rest and meditate.
“People will have a very nice view of the temple from all sides when the project is complete,” he added.
The Chief Secretary was accompanied by Puri Collector & District Magistrate Samarth Verma and other senior officials during his visit to various projects for review.
