KEONJHAR: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi’s promise for the integrated development of Maa Tarini Temple complex at Ghatagaon has begun to take shape with the Odisha Bridge and Construction Corporation (OBCC) inviting tender for the Rs 224.7 crore project.
The deadline to complete all the work as part of the tender is two years. Work will start immediately after the tender is finalised next month.
The project will necessitate the acquisition of private land for the development of the temple complex, for which a provision of Rs 63.6 crore has been made. Since a school will be demolished for the purpose, an estimated Rs 5.83 crore will be spent for its construction. Another Rs 2.48 crore will be spent for a new veterinary office, while Rs 1.65 crore is earmarked for construction of a new soil conservation office.
A major feature of the project will be a three-storeyed pilgrim centre for devotees coming from across the state as well as the country. The 250-bed pilgrim centre will come up at cost of Rs 19.78 crore.
Another part will be the market complex which will be built at a cost of Rs 12.59 crore. Many traders have put up tents and temporary shops in front of the temple for sale of coconuts and puja items which become vulnerable to fire and other problems. The new market complex will address their issues.
Similarly, to give devotees and tourists a glimpse of the glory of the presiding deity and the history of the temple, an information centre is planned at Rs 9.77 crore. A food plaza, new toilets, cloak room and shoe storage are also parts of the project.
Two ticket counters, a rest house for drivers, new queue viewing system, development of the pond, two welcome gates and hands and feet washing points will also be developed.
Majhi, after taking oath as Chief Minister last year, came to Keonjhar district and offered prayers at Ghatagaon Maa Tarini Temple where he announced the development project.