The Ahirabandha Temple complex in Sundergarh is probably the first-of-its-kind in this part of western Odisha which is spread over an area of over six acres of land.
The temple is at least 150 years old. The name Ahirabandha has been derived from a small village which existed there much before the area was acquired for construction of the Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP). About 15 temples exist in one complex, the prominent among them being Jagannath and Shiva temples. A proposal for construction Shirdi Sai temple is under process. Now, the temple is managed by Jagannath and Baidyanath Mandir Trust (JBMT).
But the temple complex needs some facelift. There are a few illegal occupants inside the complex which need to be driven out soon. The unauthorised occupants are causing problem for the devotees, especially the female devotees. A few trust board members have alleged that the district administration and the police are not cooperating for the eviction. Even the endowment department does not seem serious about the temple.
The deities (Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra) would go through Nabakalebara in 2015. But so far, the preparation has not started as the trust has a very limited resource.
So, in general, it is urged that the RSP and district administration should show a gesture of generosity for holding the event in a grand manner.
It would be better not to speak about the condition of the pond dug up inside the complex for Chandan Yatra. The State Tourism Department has been renovating it for last five years. Sources reported the project started in January 2009 with the then Tourism and Culture Minister Debi Prasad Mishra laying foundation stone for the pond’s renovation. Under the project, the pond was to be excavated and stairs were to be constructed on all sides. The State Government had undertaken the project at an estimated cost of `25 lakh.
The pond was partially renovated but due to defective design and construction, it collapsed within a few days. Neither has it outlet for draining out water nor is any system for fresh water to enter inside. It is not cleaned regularly either. ADM RN Mishra said pond’s renovation was the Tourism Department’s job and the district administration has nothing to with it.