Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government on Tuesday reviewed the comprehensive development of the Maa Mangala Temple at Kakatpur in Puri district, with a focus on upgrading pilgrim amenities, preserving the shrine’s heritage and undertaking beautification of its surrounding areas.
The review was conducted at a high-level meeting held at Lok Seva Bhawan under the joint chairmanship of Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida and Law, Works and Excise Minister Prithviraj Harichandan.
The meeting discussed the development of the temple’s Bijesthali and improvement of basic infrastructure for devotees and tourists. Plans reviewed included renovation of the main temple, construction of a new temple kitchen (Roshaghara), development of parking facilities, construction of a Sevayat Bhawan, modernization of the Yatri Niwas and Chandan Ghat, establishment of Prasad shops and construction of a heritage gateway.
The proposed second phase of the integrated development project was also taken up for discussion. It includes development of a picnic zone, construction of a heritage ghat on the Prachi River, a dedicated bridge, a children’s park, a temple administrative office and a shoe stand. Officials were directed to conduct the required surveys and submit a detailed report on the proposed works.
Addressing the meeting, Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida said the Maa Mangala Temple, one of Odisha’s prominent Shakti Peethas, is a centre of faith for millions of devotees. She said the state government has accorded top priority to the temple’s holistic development and is committed to providing improved facilities for pilgrims through sustained efforts.
Law, Works and Excise Minister Prithviraj Harichandan said the temple holds immense religious and emotional significance not only for the people of Odisha but also for devotees from across the country. He directed departmental officials to prepare a comprehensive development blueprint for the shrine.
Among those present at the meeting were OBCC Managing Director Anupam Saha, Tourism Director Deepankar Mohapatra, Puri Collector Dibyajyoti Parida, Endowment Commissioner Satyanarayan Sadangi, Engineer-in-Chief (Civil) Satyabrata Behera, Engineer-in-Chief (Buildings) Priyabrata Samantaray, Chief Engineer Trinath Behera, besides members of the Temple Trust Board and Sevayats.
