Rourkela: The Vedvyas hanging bridge project seems to have made some noticeable progress as a survey for the same is over and now the approval of the state government is awaited. The survey work began July 9 and was completed July 11. With the help of the Fire department personnel, the survey work was completed. Their help was taken given the rise in the water level of the Brahmani River. The demand and interest for the project grew when Sundargarh MP Jual Oram promised a ropeway for this important and famous Shaivite shrine. But, that project never saw the light of day.
Soon after, the idea of a hanging bridge was conceived, and then MLA and now Labour Minister Sarada Nayak also took an interest in the project. However, it remained dormant for some time. Speaking about the development the minister said, “This is the first step in that direction. And I am hopeful that soon a high-level decision will be taken on this. The BJD government is keen on developing all such important places with historical and religious significance. So, Vedvyas is no less in that case.” The project survey was handed over to hanging bridge expert Ashok Kumar Basa. He and his team did the survey, which was supported by the PWD engineers here.
Speaking on the survey, PWD executive engineer here Manoj Mahananda said, “This is the technical feasibility survey. We are waiting for the report to come.” Speaking about the place from where it will originate, the EE said, “It will start from the Panposh basti area and will end between the temple and graveyard area on the left. But, they have also looked into many other aspects.” Regarding the Fire department’s involvement, he explained, “Brahmani is full of floodwater now.
So, we brought this to the notice of our ADM, as he is the trust chairperson there and he made arrangements for having fire personnel during the survey and that really helped.” Vedvyas remains one of the most important tourist and religious attractions in this part of the state. This place has also remained a destination for shooting movies. Besides, every year during Shiv Ratri, a big fair, which is being held for the last 150 years, is organised here. Again, this is among the top destinations for performing the tenth-day post-death ritual. Besides, this area is known as the holy confluence of three rivers, Sankh, Koel, and Saraswati with a very thin stream. Many come here for immersion in the ashes of the deceased. In addition to these, during the month of Shravan, over a lakh, devotees throng here to pour water.