Puri, June 10: Puri is being spruced up ahead of the world-famous Rath Yatra, with devotees expected to witness a transformed cityscape during their visit for the annual festival of Lord Jagannath.
As preparations gather pace for the grand chariot festival scheduled on July 16, authorities have launched an extensive beautification drive across the pilgrim town. Buildings lining both sides of the Grand Road (Bada Danda), the route of the Rath Yatra, are being painted in a light pink hue to enhance the city's aesthetic appeal.
The initiative has been undertaken following a decision by the Odisha government. The Puri-Konark Development Authority (PKDA) has constituted four teams to execute the painting work. Three teams have been deployed along the stretch from the Jagannath Temple to Marchikote Square, Marchikote Square to Balagandi Square, and Balagandi Square to the Gundicha Temple.
A fourth team is carrying out similar work on buildings located along the road from Medical Square to Atharnala. The state government has sanctioned ₹2.35 crore for the project.
Officials said nearly 40 per cent of the painting work has already been completed, with the remaining work expected to be finished well before the festival. The beautification drive is aimed at providing a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere for the lakhs of devotees expected to throng Puri during the Rath Yatra.
