Bhubaneswar: Science and Technology, Public Enterprises Minister Ashok Chandra Panda, Chief Secretary Suresh Chandra Mahapatra, Additional Chief Secretary Odia Language, Literature and Culture Madhusudan Padhi visited the Peace Pagoda at Dhauli Sunday afternoon.
They looked into the field-level progress of the conservation and renovation works being undertaken by State Government on the eve of the ensuing Golden Jubilee Celebration of Dhauli Shanti Stupa.
Chief Secretary Suresh Mahapatra discussed with the engineers and officers working at the ground level. He also talked with the monk and disciples there about the quality and present status of the works.
Discussions showed that the major works included examination of the structural stability of the Stupa, structural grouting, micro concreting, marvel flooring, marvelling of the steps leading to the Stupa, widening and flooring of the front platform, pavement pathway on both sides of the Stupa, landscaping, beautification, anti-carbonation painting and waterproofing of the Stupa, peripheral site development, a proper earthing system for saving the Stupa from lightening effect, fixing of a lift from ground level to the platform of the Stupa, installation of the filtered drinking water system, widening of connecting roads, proper light arrangements both inside and outside of the Stupa, due arrangements for continued light and sound show etc. Odisha Bridge Construction Corporation and the Engineers of Works department are inspecting ground-level works at each phase.
Most of the work has been completed. Some are at the finishing stage. Chief Secretary directed to complete works in all respects and make the place ready for the Golden Jubilee Celebration of Dhauli Peace Pagoda within two days.
The Monks and disciples present on the spot appraised that there would be a two-day celebration. On 27 October there would be a Peace March from Circuit House and Governer House square to Shanti Stupa. Monks and disciples from different countries will take part in the Peace March. On 28 October the Puja at Dhauli will start at 9.45 AM. Along with Puja, there would be mass peace prayer. Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik would grace the Golden Jubilee Celebration as the Chief Guest. Collector Khordha Sri K. Sudarshan Chakravarthy accompanied Chief Secretary on this field visit.
Replying to the media query after the field-level review, Chief Secretary said the celebration would be a grand pious occasion for Buddhists of the World and great pride for the State of Odisha.
