Bhubaneswar, Oct 15: The Sri Jagannath Ballav Pilgrim Centre Project in Puri is progressing steadily and is expected to be fully completed by December next year. The project, being developed in multiple phases, aims to enhance the facilities for devotees visiting the holy town. The first phase is targeted for completion before the 2026 Rath Yatra, ensuring improved amenities for the large influx of pilgrims during the annual festival.

The update was shared during a joint meeting of the Project’s Cultural and Technical Sub-Committee, chaired by Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingh Dev at Niladri Bhakta Niwas on Grand Road. The meeting was attended by SJTA Chief Administrator Arabinda Padhee, Puri Collector Dibya Jyoti Parida, and Dr. Girish Chandra Murmu, among others.

The committee reviewed several key initiatives, including upgradation of the Gundicha Temple façade and surroundings, introduction of a ticketing system, and approval of the Srimandir Heritage Illumination Project. Other major plans discussed included the Srimandir Parikrama maintenance, construction of an Anna Khetra (food zone), and a new Bhakta Niwas behind Niladri Bhakta Niwas. Additionally, mobile phone usage will be restricted for police, staff, and servitors inside the temple premises.

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