For pilgrims' safety, structures to be razed near Puri temple

BHUBANESWAR: The state cabinet on Friday approved a proposal to clear structures within a 75-metre radius of the Jagannath Temple in Puri to facilitate free movement of pilgrims and visitors and ensure the safety of the 12th century shrine.
The decision was taken following the recommendations of the Justice BP Das Commission, constituted by the state government in July 2016, to suggest reforms in the functioning of the Puri temple.
“The commission, in its interim reports, has recommended the smooth control of crowd outside the temple and called for a proper evacuation plan. The cabinet has approved a recommendation to clear all structures within 75-metre of the boundary wall of the temple for free passage of pilgrims, visitors and the safety of the shrine,” said development commissioner Asit Tripathy.
Adding that the safety and security of pilgrims as well as the temple is the top priority of the state government, Tripathy said the cabinet has authorized the Puri district collector to conduct a detailed survey regarding requirement of land, number of properties likely to be affected, vendors to be rehabilitated and prepare a redevelopment plan around the temple.
Around one million people visit the pilgrim town every year during the annual Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath. “The state government will rehabilitate those who are going to be affected because of the redevelopment plan. Residents of the town, vendors, institutions and commercial establishments will be rehabilitated by the state government,” assured Tripathy.
The state government has already approved a slew of projects, including the development of two multi-level parking complexes, beautification projects and renovation of the municipal market complex into a modern market complex.