Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Friday embarked upon tour of districts starting with a visit to the Mahima Gadi in Dhenkanal district. 5T and Nabin Odisha Chairman VK Pandian accompanied him.
The CM laid foundation stone for an Upasana Pitha, a Mahima Gadi Sunya Mandap and peripheral development of the temple located at Joranda.
The State Government has sanctioned Rs 112 crore for redevelopment and renovation of the Mahima Gadi and the project would be completed within three years, the CM said.
The Mahima Gadi temple at Joronda is one of the most religious places in the State.
Pandian as 5T Secretary had visited the Mahima Gadi on May 29 and directed officials to prepare a Master Plan for its redevelopment and renovation.
Official sources said the Master Plan includes reconstruction of a Samadhi temple, a prayer house, walls, restoration of pond, repair of the bus-stand, reconstruction of a Kaupini Dhari Mahima Samaj Pitha, construction of a Primary Health Centre and an all-round beautification of the area.
The project would also have various facilities for saints, devotees and guests, said an official.
All steps would be taken to make Joranda a major pilgrimage and tourist centre of the district, said Works Minister Prafulla Kumar Mallick, who accompanied the CM.
