Puri, ( OT Webdesk)– In a bid to preserve the sanctity and cultural heritage of Puri’s revered Jagannath and Gundicha temples, the Chief Administrator of the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), Arabinda Kumar Padhee, has urged the Odisha government to introduce strict construction regulations in the temple vicinity.
Padhee’s proposal, submitted to the Urban Development Department, outlines measures to ensure that new structures adhere to traditional Kalinga architectural standards, preventing modern, incongruent designs from disrupting the spiritual ambience of the area.
His recommendations include height restrictions, mandatory Kalinga-style facades, and a complete ban on contemporary architecture near the temples.
Additionally, the beautification plan emphasises regulated signage and optimised open spaces to enhance the area’s aesthetics and maintain visual harmony.
Padhee argues that the initiative is not just about preservation, but about reinforcing Odisha’s cultural identity through heritage-conscious urban development.
The proposal, which was discussed in a high-level temple committee meeting on May 25, now awaits government action.
Heritage advocates and devotees are hopeful that it will set a precedent for sustainable and respectful construction practices across India’s historic religious sites.
