Hero Image

Puri gives a thumbs up to Rs 500 crore revamp package

BHUBANESWAR: Most residents in Puri are overjoyed after chief minister Naveen Patnaik on Friday announced a major infrastructure development package of Rs 500 crore to transform the temple town into a world heritage destination. The facelift package emphasises on revival of water bodies, connectivity and tourist facilities at Puri.




“As a citizen of Puri, I thank the CM for this important initiative. It will enhance the glory of the abode of Lord Jagannath in the world heritage map. Appeal all to join hands,” tweeted Padma Shri awardee and noted sand sculptor Sudarsan Pattnaik .

Debasis Das, convener of Srikhetra Swabhiman Mancha, a socio-cultural outfit, said development and beautification of Puri was long overdue. “We had expected massive makeover of Puri during 2015 Nabakalebara festival. Over Rs 1,000 crore was sanctioned for Puri’s infrastructure development. But no visible development was seen. This time, we expect the government fulfils its promises,” Das said.

The hospitality industry too is elated. “We expect huge footfall of tourists if the government successfully implements the beautification projects. Proposed multi-lane roads, trumpet bridge, renovation of sacred ponds, boating facility, parking lots and development of Jagannath Ballav mutt will definitely woo tourists,” general secretary of Hotel Association of Puri Raj Kishore Patra said.

Some residents are sceptical over the government’s announcement. “We doubt the government’s intention as crores of rupees were embezzled by local BJD leaders and government officials in the name of Nabakalebara development in 2015. Puri is still plagued by many civic issues,” said Priyadarshan Pattnaik, convenor of Jagannath Sena, a socio-cultural organisation. Priyadarshan said though the state government had in March 2017 announced Rs 100 crore package under ABADHA (Augmentation of Basic Amenities and Development of Heritage and Architecture) in Puri, no development so far happened. “A few days ago, the government sanctioned another Rs 265 crore under ABADHA. This will also go down the drains,” Priyadarshan said.

Residents and traders, who are likely to be affected by the ongoing eviction drive around the temple, are worried though the government promised them proper rehabilitation. “We have been staying near the temple for decades. Ever since the administration started eviction drive within 75-metre radius of the shrine, we have been going through sleepless nights. Though the district administration has so far not confirmed whether or not our home will be demolished, we are apprehensive of the worst. The government should shift us to newly constructed houses before evicting us from our homes,” said Prasad Rath, a house owner.

Vendors said they would protest unless the government offers them the best rehabilitation package. “I know my grocery shop will be demolished as it comes under the temple security zone. I am waiting for the government’s announcement of package for the displaced people,” said Rajesh Mishra, a shopkeeper.

READ ON APP