Finance
Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Saturday inaugurated the much-awaited SAMALEI project in Sambalpur on Saturday.
In order to give devotees a distinctive experience, the government designed the SAMALEI (Samaleswari Temple Area Management and Local Economic Initiative) to improve the temple precinct.
The project includes peripheral development of the shrine, construction of a heritage corridor, amenities for pilgrims, improved access to the temple, and development of the Mahanadi riverfront.
“People of Odisha will always remember those who volunteered to forego their lands for the SAMALEI project. The blessings of Maa Samaleswari always remain with the people of the state,” said Patnaik in Sambalpur.
The project has been completed in record time despite Covid outbreak, Patnaik said.
The project which includes the beautification and development of the Maa Samaleswari temple, has been undertaken at a cost of Rs 200 crore. The project was carried out over an area of around 40 acres.
The main goals of the SAMALEI Plan are to: commemorate the magnificence of the Maa Samaleswari temple; improve the experiences of devotees; strengthen the tourism industry in Sambalpur and Odisha; and create additional projects in the vicinity of the temple to provide employment opportunities for locals.
All buildings and heritage gates have been designed in Kalingan architecture. Khondalite stones have been used for paving and cladding. 20 shops and households have been acquired. 250 families have been rehabilitated from the Ghungutipada Slum Area, according to the state government.
A dedicated vending zone with over 60 shops, a QMS managing pilgrim flow, and shoe storage, bhog shops, and public toilets are parts of the project. Cloakrooms, prasad halls, and first-aid rooms will also add to pilgrims’ comfort.
In addition, the idea for the tourist amenities includes accessible public restrooms throughout the complex, baby care rooms, and Mission Shakti cafes managed by women’s groups. Convenience and grandeur are enhanced with information centers and elegant clock towers including water tanks.
The redevelopment of Mahanadi riverfront, Aarati platform will give devotees stunning views. Parking lot, foot overbridge with lifts will also address public inconveniences.
