Gupteswar cave shrine in Koraput to undergo facelift, Odisha CM sanctions Rs 20 Crore

Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik today sanctioned Rs 20 crore for the development and beautification of the famous Shaivite shrine in Gupteswar cave situated about 55 kilometres away from Jeypore town of Koraput, which is to be carried out without damaging its natural surroundings.

The shrine will be developed as a prominent religious destination to attract tourists and devotees.

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The approved project proposal includes the development of main road connecting the shine, its electrification, Khondalite stone laying of pavement, beautification of the entrance gate, lighting of the tourist site and construction of drinking water posts and toilets for visitors coming to the religious destination.

Sabari riverbank will also be developed. Owners of makeshift shops near the cave shrine will be rehabilitated in a permanent vending zone. Massive plantation will be done to prevent soil erosion and provisions will be made for the protection of the hill and to prevent probable landslides as well.

It is pertinent to mention, a detailed proposal in this regard was earlier submitted by Koraput Collector Abdaal M Akhtar for the CM’s approval. The proposal was prepared after discussion with servitors and committee members of the cave shrine, including local people’s representatives and residents.