Survey To Clear Encroachments In Lingaraj Temple Vicinity Begins

Bhubaneswar: Ahead of the much-awaited law for the protection & conservation of Lingaraj temple, efforts have finally begun to clear illegal encroachments around the shrine in Bhubaneswar. The eviction will be similar to the ongoing drive near Puri Srimandir, sources said. The new law is believed to play a crucial role in protection and preservation of Lingaraj Temple.

A joint squad comprising officials of Lingaraj Temple administration, Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) and Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) has been formed in this regard.

The squad today undertook land demarcation and survey process to identify the squatters around Lingaraj Temple.

“Our livelihood will be affected if our shop is demolished. The government should initiate measures for rehabilitation of affected-traders,” said Ganesh Behera, a trader.

Ravindra Nath Pradhan, BMC official (Amin) said, “BDA had issued a letter for conducting a two-day survey of government and Lingaraj land from October 15. A decision will be taken if the survey work is not completed within two days.”

Executive Officer of Lingaraj Temple Trust Board, Pradeep Sahu, on the other hand, clarified that, “The survey is just a routine check to identify the status and encroachment on government and Lingaraj Temple land.”