The Odisha government has directed officials to complete critical components of the ambitious Ekamra Redevelopment Project around the historic Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar well before Maha Shivratri 2026, with a special focus on emergency-basis execution of parking facilities and illumination of the temple’s four sides.

Works and Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan issued the directive after chairing a high-level review meeting of the Ekamra Conservation Plan on Wednesday. “All essential works, including parking and lighting around the temple, must be completed before Maha Shivratri. Bindusagar will be thoroughly cleaned and the ancient Devi Padahara and Papnashini water bodies will be restored,” the minister said.

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) will receive immediate funds f

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