Bhubaneswar: While reviewing the progress of development and infrastructure projects in Puri district, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Monday directed officials to ensure the timely completion of the projects.

The meeting focused on transforming Puri into a world-class heritage and tourism destination while safeguarding the rituals of Lord Jagannath and the welfare of servitors. Majhi emphasised development initiatives must preserve the city's cultural and spiritual significance while improving facilities for residents, pilgrims and tourists.

He directed officials to expedite the construction of the proposed Shri Jagannath International Airport, the reconstruction of Raghunandan Library and the establishment of the Shri Jagannath Interpretation Centre. A discussion was also held on development of a new amusement park.

The comprehensive development of the Gundicha Temple and construct a completely new kitchen for preparing Mahaprasad were also taken up for discussion.

People's convenience not be compromised

The Chief Minister directed immediate rehabilitation of street vendors removed from the Bada Danda (Grand Road) near the Jagannath Temple. Arrangements will be made near Shri Setu on a priority basis.

The beautification and road connectivity of the famous Gopaljiu Temple at Sakhigopal, Satalahadi Math associated with Atibadi Jagannath Das, other prominent maths in Puri and the Maa Mangala Temple at Kakatpur were also discussed. 

Efforts are being made to revive the historic Satyabadi Bana Vidyalaya along the lines of the traditional Gurukul education system and restore Bakul Bana.

Reconstruction of an iconic heritage bridge near the historic Atharanala, redevelopment of Annapurna Theatre, beautification of Puri beach and comprehensive improvement of Swargadwar were also talked about.

Majhi stressed for proper management of the evening aarti and the traditional 'Sagara Bije' ritual of Lord Jagannath.
Road-widening projects on the Puri-Brahmagiri, Puri-Konark and Puri-Bhubaneswar routes will improve connectivity and facilitate the movement of residents and tourists.

Detailed discussions were held on projects related to Shri Jagannath Medical College, Blue Flag Beach, the proposed Astaranga port and initiatives around the Konark Sun Temple.

He directed officials to ensure projects undertaken for public convenience and tourism development are completed within the stipulated timelines, without compromising on quality or implementation standards.

The Chief Minister called for world-class standards for the development projects while giving priority to the needs and livelihoods of local servitors, traders and residents.

During the meeting departmental officials, the District Collector and the Superintendent of Police were instructed to conduct field-level inspections and closely monitor progress to ensure time-bound execution.

He urged all concerned officials to work with commitment and accountability so that development schemes do not remain confined to official records but translate into tangible improvements in the lives of people of Puri.

Chief Secretary Anu Garg, Development Commissioner D.K. Singh, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Saswat Mishra, Puri Collector Dibyajyoti Parida and Superintendent of Police Prateek Singh, among others, attended the meeting.