Odisha’s Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida today conducted a comprehensive review of the proposed integrated tourism development projects at Khandagiri and Udayagiri sites, to enhance visitor experience while ensuring heritage conservation and sustainable development.
During the review, she assessed the planned interventions aimed at improving public amenities, accessibility, interpretation, and overall urban integration around the nationally important Jain heritage sites, which are protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The projects have been conceptualised in strict conformity with ASI regulations, protected and regulated area norms, and established principles of heritage-sensitive tourism development.
She was accompanied by Shri Babu Singh, Hon’ble MLA; Shri Balwant Singh, IAS, Commissioner-cum-Secretary, Department of Tourism; Shri Deepankar Mohapatra, Director of Tourism; and other senior officials of the Department. Prominent social activist Shri Jaga Pradhan, local intellectuals, and elected Corporator were also present during the review. Officials presented an overview of key project components, including organised parking and landscaped plazas, a signature arrival plaza with tourist facilitation and interpretation facilities, a dedicated pedestrian link between Khandagiri and Udayagiri, and streetscape and public realm improvements along major approach roads.
The Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister emphasised that all proposed works must maintain the sanctity and visual integrity of the heritage landscape. She reiterated that no construction is planned within the protected monument boundaries and that all interventions are located outside the ASI protected area, with low-visual-impact designs and landscape integration.
Officials also informed that the project has received the required No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the National Monument Authority, subject to compliance with stipulated conditions and execution under the supervision of ASI authorities. The proposed project cost is approximately ₹52 crore, with revised estimates currently under process in line with approval conditions.
She noted that the integrated development of Khandagiri and Udayagiri will significantly amplify the visitor experience, improve urban aesthetics, and strengthen Bhubaneswar’s position as a leading heritage and cultural tourism destination in the country.
