Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi this evening chaired a review meeting at Lok Seva Bhawan to discuss the integrated development of the Maa Tarini Pitha in Ghatgaon.
The ambitious project, spanning 59 acres, aims to enhance the temple’s infrastructure and aesthetic appeal with an investment of ₹215 crore.
The meeting included inputs from local intellectuals and stakeholders, ensuring that the development prioritises the convenience of devotees, visitors, and residents. The Chief Minister emphasised incorporating community feedback, following his earlier directive to involve local residents in the planning process.
Key initiatives include the development of three access roads to the temple from Harichandanpur, Keonjhar, and Panikoili, each equipped with parking facilities, shops for offerings, and other amenities for pilgrims.
Ornamental gateways will adorn these routes, enhancing their visual appeal. Additionally, a grand yajna mandap, a kalyan mandap, and an interpretation centre inspired by Konark’s architectural style will be constructed to showcase the temple’s history and significance.
Plans also include provisions for future expansion of the proposed yatri niwas (pilgrim rest house), as well as organised shops for offerings and the modernisation of the government dak bungalow in Ghatgaon.
Based on suggestions from local intellectuals, the Chief Minister directed officials to refine the development plan to reflect community inputs.
The meeting saw participation from Public Works and Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan, Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Saswat Mishra, Principal Secretary, Law, Manas Ranjan Barik, Commissioner-cum-Secretary, Tourism, Balwant Singh, Endowment Commissioner, senior officials from OBCC, and numerous intellectuals and residents from the Ghatgaon area.
The integrated development of the Maa Tarini Pitha Ghatagaon underscores the state’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage while improving facilities for devotees and boosting tourism in the region.
