Bhubaneswar, April 21: The 11th century Lingaraj Temple and its adjoining areas will shortly wear a new look.
The Bhubaneswar Development Authority plans to develop one of the foremost tourist spots in the state capital with modern facilities and infrastructure. The project, named Lingaraj Plaza and centred around the temple of Lord Lingaraj, will act as a branding strategy for the area to attract tourists. The development authority has already begun consultations with stakeholders and is in the process of inviting tenders after getting the green signal from the state government. They plan to take up execution three months after the tender process is cleared.
However, to ensure that the cultural and historic significance of the site is preserved and managed, the development authority will implement its plans through the Lighter Quicker and Cheaper mode, that allows a developer to make low-cost and temporary changes to the environment to improve neighbourhoods.
"The project intends to present a comprehensive strategy for the revival of the area," said Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation engineer Dwaipayan Pattnaik.
The development project includes construction of two gateways to the temple, at the northern and eastern sides, called Lingaraj Duara. There will be designated points within the project area for various purposes. Kalakosh, one such point, will be part of a tourist interpretation centre. Visitors to the shrine will be walked through the historical relevance and rituals of major temples in Bhubaneswar here. The galpa prachira will have wall art depicting the history of the temple and adjoining areas, Pattanaik said.
The Meena bazaar point will have vending shops for puja items. It will also have food kiosks. There will also be a nirmal sthala beside the temple where tourists can freshen up before entering the temple. The Art Haat is being planned as a hub for artists where they will be able sketch their imaginations. The vishram sthala will have provisions for tourists to take rest.
However, when contacted, officials of the development authority refused to divulge details on the project cost.
