Bhubaneswar, Oct 8: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi chaired a high-level review meeting at Lok Seva Bhawan here on Wednesday to assess the progress of the Maa Samaleswari Temple development project in Sambalpur, officials said.

The Chief Minister emphasized the need to elevate the temple’s infrastructure to global standards, given its spiritual and tourism significance.

Rs 316 Crore Project

The Samaleswari Temple development project is being executed in two phases over 82 acres of land with an investment of Rs316 crore.

The first phase includes construction of a temple corridor, renovation of Gopalji Math, a lamp house, parking facilities, riverfront development, and amenities for pilgrims and visitors.

The second phase will focus on building a multi-storey Bhakta Nivas (devotee lodging), lake zone, shopping complex, food park, additional parking, and a grand entrance pathway.

CM Stresses Global Appeal

Highlighting the temple’s year-round footfall of devotees and tourists from across India and abroad, the Chief Minister advised officials to ensure that all facilities meet international standards. He also recommended expanding the Bhakta Nivas to accommodate more pilgrims, suggesting multi-storey structures where necessary.

CM Majhi further instructed that displaced residents due to the development must be provided with suitable rehabilitation and housing.

Key Officials Present

Works and Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan, Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja, Principal Secretary of Works Department Sanjay Kumar Singh, Principal Secretary to CM Shashwat Mishra, senior engineers and officials from the Works Department were present in the meeting.

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