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: In a major boost to Odisha’s urban infrastructure, the State Government has announced the construction of a state-of-the-art Multipurpose Convention Centre in Puri with a seating capacity of 1,000 people. The ambitious project is expected to transform the holy city into a premier destination for conferences, exhibitions, cultural programmes, and large public events.

The announcement was made by Housing & Urban Development Minister Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra during the State-Level Urban Outreach Programme organised by the Housing & Urban Development Department under the theme “Jan Bhagidari for Viksit Odisha: Empowered Citizens – Inclusive Cities – Sustainable Urban Future.”

The proposed convention centre will feature modern amenities and flexible event spaces designed to host national and international conferences, academic seminars, government functions, business meetings, cultural festivals, exhibitions, and community events. The facility is expected to address the long-standing need for a world-class venue in Puri while significantly enhancing the city’s event-hosting capabilities.

Highlighting Puri’s growing importance as one of India’s most revered pilgrimage destinations and an emerging global tourism hub, Dr. Mahapatra said the convention centre would strengthen the city’s infrastructure and support its expanding role in tourism, culture, and economic development.

“Puri occupies a special place on the global cultural and spiritual map. As the city continues to attract visitors, pilgrims, scholars, and delegates from across India and abroad, the need for a modern convention facility has become increasingly important. This project will not only bridge a critical infrastructure gap but also create new opportunities for tourism, cultural exchange, knowledge-sharing, and economic growth,” the Minister said.

He further directed the Commissioner of the Puri Municipal Corporation to initiate all necessary administrative procedures and preparatory work on priority to ensure the timely execution of the project.

Dr. Mahapatra also announced that the State Government is preparing a broader roadmap to develop similar multipurpose civic infrastructure across Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) in Odisha in a phased manner. The initiative aims to improve urban amenities, encourage community participation, and meet the evolving needs of rapidly expanding urban centres.

The announcement received an enthusiastic response from public representatives, citizens, and stakeholders attending the programme, who described the proposed convention centre as a landmark project for Puri’s future.

Once completed, the convention centre is expected to become a major civic landmark, reinforcing Puri’s position as a leading cultural, spiritual, and tourism destination while advancing Odisha’s vision of sustainable, inclusive, and citizen-centric urban development.

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Preparations are in full swing for the world-famous Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath, as Sri Kshetra Puri gets ready to welcome lakhs of devotees. The second coordination meeting for Rath Yatra arrangements was held under the chairmanship of the Law Minister, where reports from all line departments were reviewed.

After assessing the progress of various departments, the Law Minister issued strict instructions to officials to ensure smooth management of the festival. The administration has been working on preparations since January to rectify shortcomings observed during last year’s Rath Yatra. One-to-one discussions were also held between the Minister, secretaries, and the Chief Secretary regarding the arrangements.

No Excavation Work Allowed After July 5

To avoid inconvenience during the festival, authorities have decided that no excavation work will be allowed in Puri city after July 5. Officials have been instructed to complete all pending works before the deadline and ensure that roads and public areas remain ready for the grand event.

Special Healthcare Arrangements for Devotees

This year, special emphasis has been given to healthcare facilities for devotees attending the Rath Yatra. Eight temporary medical centres will be set up on both sides of the Bada Danda (Grand Road), while first-aid centres will be available at 30 locations across the city.

The Puri District Headquarters Hospital has also been strengthened with 10 ICU beds and 10 trauma beds. Additionally, 150 beds in the new hospital building have been kept ready to handle emergency situations during the festival.

Green Corridor for Emergency Services

For quick movement of ambulances during emergencies, a dedicated ‘Green Corridor’ system will be created along the Bada Danda. Health officials will remain on duty from June 25 to July 27 to ensure round-the-clock medical support for devotees.

Administration Focuses on Smooth Rath Yatra Management

The district administration and concerned departments are working in coordination to ensure a safe and hassle-free Rath Yatra. Officials have been directed to complete all preparations on time and maintain high standards of crowd management, public safety, and essential services during the festival.

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