Is Odisha Ready for a Major Transformation with the Maa Tarini Temple Redevelopment?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Rs 313 crore budget for temple redevelopment.
- Project completion expected within a year.
- Plans for a 216-bed pilgrims' lodge and other amenities.
- Transformation of Keonjhar into an industrial hub.
- Support for local economic growth.
Bhubaneswar, Dec 7 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Odisha, Mohan Charan Majhi, on Sunday, reiterated the commitment of the BJP-led government to elevate Keonjhar as Odisha's third steel city, joining the ranks of Rourkela in Sundargarh and Kalinga Nagar in Jajpur, as confirmed by government officials.
During the ceremony to lay the foundation stone for the integrated redevelopment of the esteemed Maa Tarini Temple located in Ghatagaon, Keonjhar district, the Chief Minister presented a detailed strategy aimed at fostering comprehensive growth in his home district.
This foundation stone event symbolizes the commencement of a long-anticipated initiative for both Kendujhar district and the broader state of Odisha.
Significantly, a budget of Rs 313 crore has been earmarked for the temple's development, with an anticipated completion within the upcoming year.
At the occasion, Chief Minister Majhi emphasized the government's dedication to transforming the Maa Tarini Temple into a globally recognized site for religious tourism.
He further announced plans for additional funding to construct residential facilities for temple priests and essential amenities, as well as enhancements to the surrounding area.
The Chief Minister instructed the State Works Department and the District Collector to devise a comprehensive project report for these initiatives.
The development project will encompass nearly 60 acres and feature a 216-bed special pilgrims' lodge, a pilgrims' center, a coconut counter, an interpretation center, a food plaza, a watchtower, a market complex, a spacious prasad hall accommodating 500 people, toilet blocks, clothing rooms, a shoe stand, ticket counters, washing areas, and driver restrooms.
Road enhancements, parking facilities, and beautification efforts for four ponds will also be undertaken, stated CM Majhi.
Critiquing the previous Biju Janata Dal administration, the Chief Minister noted that the previous allocation of Rs 50 crore for temple development had not produced significant outcomes.
He asserted that the current BJP-led government is dedicated to positioning Kendujhar as a pivotal center for economic development, including plans for a mega steel plant.
According to him, Kendujhar is set to rise as an industrial hub akin to Rourkela and Jharsuguda, backed by a robust road network linking various industrial zones.
CM Majhi also remarked that Keonjhar district will be instrumental in realizing the vision of a 'Viksit Bharat' (Developed India) by 2047 and a 'Samruddha Odisha' by 2036.