Cuttack, Oct. 9: Qadam-e-Rasool, an ancient sacred shrine both for Muslims and the Hindus here, is awaiting attention of authorities for various issues that are marring its architectural grandeur.

Local residents are hopeful that a recent renovation proposal will resolve the concerns.

Historically, the construction of the monument, where the footprint of Prophet Mohammad has been preserved, was done on a single rock by the then Subedar Nawab Sujauddin Mohammad Khan in the 18th century. The domed mosque is a fine example of Indo-Islamic architecture.

Spread over 57 acres at Dargha Bazaar in the city, Qadam-e-Rasool, is a centre for religious integration for both Hindus and Muslims. Members of both the communities visit the shrine in large numbers. Despite being a major tourist attraction, not much has been done towards the development of the shrine.

“Around two lakh devotees visit the sacred shrine annually. However, for the lack of accommodation facilities, the devotees have to face many problems,” said Qadam-e-Rasool managing committee president Ziauddin Ahmed.

There is no adequate provision of lighting inside Qadam-e-Rasool and a water reservoir in the form of a pond inside the historic mosque needs urgent measures for revival.

“The pond on the premises is full of weeds and the lights are not functioning, which is creating problems for devotees during nights,” said Hafiz Sayed Sadruddin, imam of the nearby Sahi Masjid. The Cuttack Municipal Corporation had inaugurated lighting facilities at Qadam-e-Rasool at a cost of Rs 3.5 lakh in 2010, but most of the lights are not working owing to lack of measures for its repairs.

However, things are likely to change as a master plan is being prepared for the monument’s all-round preservation. Official sources said the state tourism department would carry out renovation work at the Qadam-e-Rasool.

“There is a plan to carry out development work at the historic Qadam-e-Rasool. Soon, a meeting would be held with its managing committee to seek various inputs in this regard,” said Cuttack collector Girish S.N. Based on the suggestions the master plan would be sent to the government for approval.

“We are happy that efforts have begun towards preservation of the shrine,” said Ahmed.

There is a proposal for construction of a boundary wall. A guesthouse for devotees is also likely to come up. Local councillor of ward No. 20, Durga Charan Sahoo said the tourism department had spent Rs 13 lakh last year for installation of tiles and other renovation programmes while Rs 40 lakh was spent for the shrine’s beautification.

“The latest proposal will ensure improved lighting, sanitation, construction of boundary wall and renovation of pond, which would be done by the tourism department at a cost of Rs 1.5 crore,” Sahoo said.