Kantilo's Nilamadhav Temple next on Odisha Govt’s development radar 

Nilamadhav Temple, situated atop Brahmadi twin hills on the banks of the Mahanadi at Kantilo in Nayagarh district, seems next on the Odisha government’s religious centres’ development plan after Puri Jagannath Temple, Lingaraj Temple and  Tara Tarini shrine. 

Secretary to Chief Minister (5T) VK Pandian on Thursday visited the shrine and offered prayers. He also took stock of the present condition of the temple.

According to reports, the 5T secretary toured the century-old Vishnu Temple under the direction of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. 

Pandian was accompanied by Works Secretary Vir Vikram Yadav, Nayagarh Collector Poma Tudu, and other officials.

According to reports, the 5T secretary discussed various issues with the district officials including the status of the ongoing development works at the shrine.

They also held discussions with the servitors of the temple about their problems and sought their suggestions for the overall development of the shrine.

Nayagarh Collector Poma Tudu said like Puri Jagannath Temple's Heritage Corridor Nilamadhav Temple's surroundings will be developed. He also said that a hall would be constructed near the west gate of the temple. Tudu further revealed that to facilitate devotees' movement to the temple, a lift will be installed.

Other infrastructural projects including parking, shoe stand, washroom and beautification of Chandan pond will be taken up simultaneously, Tudu said.

The state government plans to develop the facilities at the temple to attract more footfalls of tourists under the 5T programme. 

The Public Works Department will submit a master plan to the Chief Minister soon in this regard for his approval.