Odisha Reviews Comprehensive Development Plan for Maa Mangala Temple at Kakatpur

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government on Tuesday reviewed an ambitious plan for the holistic development of the Maa Mangala Temple at Kakatpur in Puri district, with a focus on upgrading pilgrim amenities, preserving the shrine’s heritage and improving tourism infrastructure around the revered Shakti Peetha.

The roadmap was discussed at a high-level meeting held at Lok Seva Bhawan, jointly chaired by Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida and Law, Works and Excise Minister Prithviraj Harichandan.

The meeting reviewed proposals for the development of the temple’s Bijesthali and beautification of the surrounding areas while prioritising better facilities for devotees and tourists visiting the shrine.

Among the projects discussed were renovation of the main temple, construction of a new Roshaghara (temple kitchen), development of parking facilities, construction of a Sevayat Bhawan, modernisation of the Yatri Niwas and Chandan Ghat, establishment of Prasad shops and construction of a heritage gateway.

The meeting also deliberated on the second phase of the integrated development project, which includes creation of a picnic zone, development of a heritage ghat on the Prachi River, construction of a dedicated bridge, a children’s park, a temple administrative building and a shoe stand. Officials were directed to undertake the required surveys and submit a detailed project report for the proposed works.

Addressing the meeting, Deputy Chief Minister Parida said the Maa Mangala Temple is one of Odisha’s most revered Shakti Peethas and attracts millions of devotees every year. She said the state government has accorded high priority to the temple’s comprehensive development with the objective of enhancing facilities for pilgrims while preserving its spiritual and cultural significance.

Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan said the temple holds immense religious and emotional importance for devotees from Odisha and across the country. He directed the concerned departments to prepare a comprehensive development blueprint to ensure systematic and sustainable infrastructure development.

The meeting was attended by Odisha Bridge and Construction Corporation (OBCC) Managing Director Anupam Saha, Tourism Director Deepankar Mohapatra, Puri Collector Dibyajyoti Parida, Endowment Commissioner Satyanarayan Sadangi, Engineer-in-Chief (Civil) Satyabrata Behera, Engineer-in-Chief (Buildings) Priyabrata Samantaray, Chief Engineer Trinath Behera, besides members of the Temple Trust Board and Sevayats.