Odisha Government undertakes Konark heritage corridor plan

BHUBANESWAR: Addressing its determined plans for transformation of religious and heritage sites into world class tourism and spiritual destinations, the Government of Odisha has decided to begin massive embellishment work at the Sun Temple in Konark and its periphery. In 1984, Konark temple was accorded the tag of World Heritage Site.

In accordance with the ongoing heritage corridor projects, including Sri Jagannath temple at Puri and Lingaraj temple in Bhubaneswar, the state government on Thursday, January 21, released a draft architectural plan for beautification of the world famous heritage site. The plan was approved by Naveen Patnaik, Chief Minister of Odisha.

According to the plan, Konark will go through a major redevelopment exercise to furnish the temple and its periphery with world-class infrastructure and amenities. The work will be launched under the 5T initiative of the government.

Under the Konark heritage corridor project, the 3.5 kilometre-long Ring Road around the temple will be made six-laned. All roads connecting the temple will be improved for convenience of the tourists and visitors.

Local vendors will also be rehabilitated under the project. Besides, 30 acre land in front of the Sun Temple will be kept open for landscaping. In addition, a beautiful entry plaza will be built to welcome visitors into the heritage site; a multi-modal hub will be constructed for parking of automobiles.

The project envisions protection of Konark temple and aims to take up its enhancement along with the adjoining areas to give tourists a memorable and unique experience and develop economy of Puri district. Improvement of the adjoining areas of the temple will be harmonised with the heritage site.