Dikhyaa Mohanty 
The Puri Srimandir Heritage Corridor Project has finally started off. Puri District Administration had carried out an extensive eviction drive in the vicinity of the 12th-century shrine to make way for the Heritage Corridor following the Odisha Cabinet’s resolution for the construction of the showpiece developmental project.
The foundation stone for the mega project was laid last year on November 24, 2021. The Heritage Corridor Project is being implemented within a 75-metre radius of the Meghanada Pacheri (wall) of the temple. The State Government has earmarked Rs 331.28 crore for the project and a tender in this regard has been fixed.
As per Sri Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) sources, a blueprint has been prepared for beautification around Srimandir with the construction of bhajan mandap, Sanskriti mandapa, clock room, tourist restroom and Sraddha Sthala in place. All temples and mutts around the corridor will be made as per Utkaliya’s art style. Few modifications have been made in the blueprint for the security of the tourists and the convenience of local people as well.
Director General (DG) of Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) had reviewed developmental projects in and around Srimandir two days ago. As per the Chief Administrator of Srimandir, Krishan Kumar, work for the Heritage Corridor Project will be undertaken under proper guidance from ASI.
