Odisha CM Mohan Majhi Reviews Projects to Transform Puri

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has reviewed major development and infrastructure projects in Puri district, directing officials to expedite work and transform the pilgrimage city into a world-class heritage and tourism destination.

A high-level meeting was held at Lok Seva Bhavan in Bhubaneswar on Monday. The discussions focused on infrastructure, religious heritage, tourism promotion, road connectivity and the welfare of local communities.

Airport, Library and Interpretation Centre

The Chief Minister directed officials to accelerate the construction of Shri Jagannath International Airport, the reconstruction of Raghunandan Library and the establishment of the Shri Jagannath Interpretation Centre. Plans for a new amusement park to attract tourists were also discussed.

The government has decided to undertake comprehensive development of Gundicha Temple and construct a new kitchen for preparing Mahaprasad.

Heritage Conservation and Beach Beautification

The meeting reviewed the reconstruction of an iconic heritage bridge near Atharanala, redevelopment of Annapurna Theatre, beautification of Puri Beach and comprehensive development of Swargadwar.

Improvements in the management of the evening Alati ritual and Lord Jagannath’s traditional Sagar Bije ritual were also discussed.

The government will expedite beautification and road connectivity projects involving Gopaljiu Temple at Sakhigopal, Satalahadi Math and Maa Mangala Temple at Kakatpur. Restoration of Satyabadi Bana Vidyalaya and Bakula Bana also featured in the discussions.

Road Projects and Rehabilitation of Vendors

The Chief Minister reviewed road-widening projects connecting Puri with Brahmagiri, Konark and Bhubaneswar. Projects related to Shri Jagannath Medical College, Blue Flag Beach, Astaranga port and the Konark Sun Temple were also assessed.

Majhi directed officials to immediately rehabilitate street vendors removed from Bada Danda near Sri Jagannath Temple in an area near Sri Setu.

Time-Bound Execution Emphasised

Describing Puri as a symbol of Odisha’s cultural identity and a centre of faith for millions of devotees, Majhi stressed that development must protect local livelihoods and religious traditions.

He warned against delays and irregularities and instructed officials to complete projects within stipulated timelines.

Chief Secretary Anu Garg, Development Commissioner D.K. Singh, Puri Collector Dibyajyoti Parida and other senior officials attended the meeting.