Bhubaneswar, Dec 17: Odisha’s Deputy Chief Minister, Pravati Parida, conducted a detailed review today of the proposed integrated tourism development projects at the Khandagiri and Udayagiri sites, aiming to enhance the visitor experience while preserving heritage and ensuring sustainable development.

The review focused on planned interventions to improve public amenities, accessibility, and interpretation at these significant Jain heritage sites, which are protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The development projects have been designed in strict adherence to ASI regulations and heritage-sensitive tourism principles, ensuring minimal impact on the protected area.

Accompanied by various officials, including Babu Singh, MLA, and Balwant Singh, IAS, Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Department of Tourism, the Deputy CM was briefed on key components of the project. These include a signature arrival plaza, dedicated pedestrian links between Khandagiri and Udayagiri, improved parking facilities, and streetscape improvements along major approach roads.

Emphasising the importance of maintaining the heritage integrity, Parida clarified that no construction would take place within the protected monument boundaries. All interventions are planned outside the ASI-protected area, with designs focused on minimal visual impact and landscape integration.

The project has received the necessary No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the National Monument Authority, subject to specific conditions. The estimated cost for the project is ₹52 crore, with revised estimates underway.

Parida noted that this integrated development will enhance the visitor experience, improve the city's aesthetics, and strengthen Bhubaneswar’s standing as a key heritage and cultural tourism destination in India.