Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik Wednesday laid the foundation stone for the Rs 280 crore Ekamra project.
Patnaik laid the foundation on the last day of the three-day groundbreaking celebration amidst chanting slokas by pandits. He thanked the people who have offered their land for the project.
The Ekamra project, also known as the Ekamra Kshetra Amenities and Monuments Revival Action plan, was launched by the Odisha Government in 2019.
Ekamra Kshetra is a series of ancient sandstone temples, heritage ponds and water tanks in the temple city of Bhubaneswar. The wealth of monuments in the area is testament to an ancient continuous architectural and historical heritage covering over 2,000 years from the 3rd century BC to the 15th century AD.
With an allocated area of 80 acres of land around the revered Shri Lingaraj Temple, including various monuments, holy tanks, and water bodies, the project aims to recreate the magnificence of the ancient heritage precinct.
The Phase-l development will encompass key highlights such as the restoration of Ekamra Kshetra’s architectural and archaeological heritage. A 12-18 metre wide mixed traffic lane will be implemented, alongside 4-10 meter wide shaded walkways to ensure smooth pedestrian flow.
Parking facilities will be relocated to the outer periphery of Ekamra Kshetra to alleviate congestion. Interconnected landscaped open spaces will be created, providing safe gathering areas for devotees, while a 300 sq metre temple facility will be constructed for the convenience of pilgrims.
Additionally, a 1,600 sq metre Information and Control Centre will be developed to cater to emergency services. A dedicated pedestrian path around Bindusagar will be constructed to facilitate easy access to ritual spaces and Ekarnra Van.
It seeks to provide a harmonious blend of modern amenities and the preservation of cultural heritage, ensuring a transformative experience for visitors and devotees alike.
The Odisha Bridge Construction Corporation (OBCC) has been entrusted with executing the project and the tender has been finalised.
The Bhumi Pujan for the project commenced on the evening of June 26 with Yagna rituals that will continue till June 28, The Lingaraj temple, Ananta Basudeva, Mukteswar Temple, Bindu Sagar, and other smaller temples were beautifully decorated with lights.
Captivating sky projections, light and sound show, dance performances at the BMC Market Complex from June 26 to June 28 were arranged for the visitors.
An exhibition featuring a project model and information displays was organised to enlighten visitors about the endeavours taking place within Ekamra Kshetra.
UNI