Bhubaneswar: The State government today sanctioned Rs 8.5 crore for development of the famous Baladevjeu Temple in Kendrapara and the grand road. A meeting chaired by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik decided to develop the temple, also known as Tulsi Khetra, as an attractive religious tourist site.

As per the decisions taken in the high-level meeting, the Baldevjeu Temple and its premises will be decorated with attractive lighting system. This apart, both the sides of the grand road will also have lighting system. A spiritual park will also be established in the town.

A release issued by the Chief Minister’s Office stated that renovation of the heritage tank, conservation of ancient monuments, development of drainage system and strengthening of temple security will also be taken up.

During the meeting with Kendrapara MP, MLA, District Collector, Temple Trust Members and the servitors through video conferencing, the Chief Minister directed them to complete the work before car festival next year. He also asked the officials to maintain the quality of the projects.

Among others, Chief Secretary, Chief Advisor CMO, Secretary to CM (5-T) and Secretary Works were present in the meeting.

Worth mentioning, the CM had visited the temple in June this year on Snana Purnima. The servitors of the temple and locals had brought to the notice of the CM about different issues relating to the temple.