Cuttack, Sept 28: After facing criticism for neglecting the Upper Bali Yatra Ground last year, the Cuttack district administration has planned a major revamp of the area this year. Last year, only a few stalls were set up on the Upper Ground at the last moment following public criticism, leaving the area largely deserted. This year, the administration plans to make the Upper Ground a major attraction of the Bali Yatra.
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Around 1.93 lakh square feet of the Upper Bali Yatra Ground has been earmarked for 591 stalls, covering food, entertainment, government and corporate zones. The ground will be divided into 11 blocks to ensure better crowd management and a systematic layout. A dedicated food zone will feature 40 stalls measuring 20x15 feet and another 80 stalls measuring 10x15 feet.
The Dahibara Aludum Haat, introduced last year, will also be shifted to the Upper Ground this year. A special 15,000-square-foot amusement zone has been planned for entertainment activities. The zone is expected to be a major attraction for families visiting the Bali Yatra. The administration has also earmarked around 30,000 square feet for government departments to showcase public welfare schemes, services and various initiatives. Around 2,700 square feet has been identified as a vending zone for small traders. In addition, around 15,000 square feet has been reserved for corporate and industrial participation, while 10,000 square feet has been earmarked for MSMEs.
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The District Social Welfare Office will also have a dedicated 5,000-square-foot area for its stalls. The planning is being led by Additional District Magistrate Kamaljit Das and Cuttack Sadar Tehsildar Debadatta Pradhan along with a team. With a large number of visitors expected, the administration is also focusing on basic infrastructure, including lighting, drainage, internal roads and parking facilities. The expanded Upper Ground plan is aimed at ensuring that this year's Bali Yatra offers visitors more attractions and a better-organised experience.
