Odisha's Grand Revival: Ekamra Beautification Project Resumes with Rs 330 Crore Funding

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has announced a substantial funding of Rs 330 crore to rejuvenate the stalled Ekamra beautification and modernisation project at Shree Lingaraj temple in Bhubaneswar. Originally launched by the previous BJD government in 2019, the project faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The initiative, known as the Ekamra Kshetra Amenities and Monument Revival Action, aims to enhance the allure of this age-old spiritual site. According to CM Majhi, work valued at Rs 180 crore will soon commence in the first phase, focusing on the development and beautification of the sacred grounds. The second phase will see the creation of an interpretation centre and peripheral developments at an additional investment of Rs 150 crore.

Law and Works Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan stated that the ambitious project, which includes constructing a large Lord Shiva statue and redeveloping the Bindu Sagar tank as a heritage lake, will be completed by March 2027. Efforts are being made to reinvigorate the Ekamra project as a pivotal element of Odisha's spiritual tourism drive.