Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government on Tuesday initiated the process of preparing a comprehensive master plan for the integrated development of Chilika Lake, the Maa Kalijai Temple and the Satapada region, with a focus on transforming the ecologically sensitive landscape into a world-class tourism destination while preserving its unique ecosystem.
The proposal was discussed at a high-level meeting chaired jointly by Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida and Law, Works and Excise Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan. The meeting reviewed plans for the integrated development of Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon and Ramsar Site through improved tourism infrastructure, enhanced visitor amenities and environmentally sustainable interventions.
Parida emphasised the need to strengthen tourism infrastructure in and around Chilika and develop the region into an internationally acclaimed destination with world-class hospitality facilities. She also stressed the importance of ensuring the holistic development of the revered Maa Kalijai Temple as part of the broader tourism initiative.
Harichandan called for the preparation of a robust development blueprint with special emphasis on improving road connectivity and public infrastructure to accelerate the region’s overall growth. He underlined that all development activities should remain environmentally sensitive to protect Chilika’s fragile ecology and biodiversity.
During the meeting, various agencies presented conceptual master plans outlining a range of proposed tourism and infrastructure projects. These included upgraded road networks, modern jetties, parking facilities, bird-viewing points, cycling tracks, roller skating zones, water sports and boating facilities, trekking routes, tree houses, open food courts, picnic areas and public art installations showcasing Odisha’s cultural heritage.
The meeting also reviewed the proposed Greenfield Road connecting Gopalpur and Bahuda, which is expected to improve connectivity and promote tourism in the surrounding region.
Among those present were OBCC Managing Director Anupam Saha, Tourism Director Deepankar Mohapatra, Puri Collector Divyajyoti Parida, Commissioner of Endowments Satyanarayan Sadangi, Engineer-in-Chief (Civil) Satyabrata Behera, Engineer-in-Chief (Buildings) Priyabrata Samantaray, Chief Engineer Trinath Behera, members of the Kalijai Temple Trust Board and temple servitors.
