Puri's Transformation: A Vision for a World-Class Pilgrim City

Revamping Puri While Honoring Its Heritage

Puri: The government is prioritizing a comprehensive upgrade of Puri while maintaining its cultural heritage. During a review meeting on Thursday, Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida urged officials to accelerate the development initiatives in this sacred city and its surrounding district.

Recognizing the emotional connection that millions have with Lord Jagannath's abode, the meeting, co-chaired by Deputy CM Parida and Law, Works, and Excise Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan, emphasized the importance of transforming Puri into a world-class destination. Parida remarked, “For many across India, visiting the renowned Puri is a cherished aspiration.”

She stressed the need for collaborative efforts from both government and community sectors to enhance Puri's appeal and beauty. Minister Harichandan acknowledged that while development often presents challenges, determination and strategic planning can lead to successful outcomes.

He instructed relevant departmental officials to ensure the timely completion of the planned projects in Puri. The meeting covered various development aspects, including the peripheral enhancement of Shree Gundicha Temple, improvements to amusement parks, land acquisition for the Srimandir Model Gurukul, the Sevayat Housing Project, and the establishment of an international-standard Raghunandan Library and Jagannath Research Centre. Additionally, plans for a dormitory at the former police station site and the development of Atharanala were discussed.

It was agreed to incorporate Odisha’s architectural style into new constructions, demolish unsafe structures that threaten Srimandir, utilize modern construction equipment, adhere to the guidelines set by the National Monument Authority (NMA), and secure approvals from the Puri-Konark Development Authority (PKDA).

Attendees at the meeting included SJTA Chief Administrator Arabinda Padhee, Principal Secretary of the Works Department Sanjay Kumar Singh, Puri Collector Dibyajyoti Parida, OBCC Managing Director Sameer Hota, EIC (Civil) Satyabrata Behera, Works Department Advisor Jaya Krishna Das, along with several senior officials from various departments.