Puri: The State government today issued a notification for acquisition of land close to Shree Jagannath Temple in the pilgrim town. As per reports, 15 acres of both government and privately-owned land in five ‘Sahis’ near the temple will be acquired.

Sources said the maximum land patch of three acres will be acquired by the government from Chudangasahi mouza.

Based on the survey and measurement done by the district administration, the land will be acquired under Section-4 of Resettlement and Rehabilitation Policy, stated the notification issued by the Revenue and Disaster Management department.

With an aim to make Puri town as a heritage city, the administration has been carrying out an eviction drive within 75 metre radius from the temple. Worth mentioning the administration has been facing stiff opposition from various groups during its demolition drive began since fourth week of August.