Sikharchandi Temple: Move To Install Streetlights Near Sikharchandi Temple | Bhubaneswar News


Bhubaneswar: Redevelopment work in the periphery of Sikharchandi Temple in the city got a further boost with Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) initiating the process to install streetlights from the entry gate to the shrine’s steps.
BDA has issued a tender seeking a proposal from competent agencies to undertake the task. The selected agency will be granted one month to finalise the installation of streetlights within the designated project area.BDA has allocated Rs 12.87 lakh for the project.

“Installation of streetlights is an integral component of the redevelopment plan for Sikharchandi Temple. The road leading from the foothills to the temple will be illuminated. Our target is to accomplish the work by Oct-end,” said Kaushik Dhal, engineer member, BDA.
BDA had demarcated the project area last year and built a temporary boundary wall around it. Subsequently, the agency also began a massive community-driven plantation drive on Sikharchandi hill. As many as 3,200 plants of different species were planted during the drive.
“We have delineated the boundaries of Sikharchandi hill and secured the project site with a boundary wall. Redevelopment work is progressing in a phased manner. In the subsequent phase, we will focus on the development of the foothills followed by the area near the temple,” Dhal added.
The picturesque Sikharchandi hill is a popular spot for picnickers. During winter, the hill witnesses a surge in footfall.
However, encroachment is a problem on the hill. To address the issue, BDA has formulated the redevelopment plan for Sikharchandi, aiming not only to enhance its appeal for visitors but also transform it into another prominent tourist destination in the capital city.
“Sikharchandi is a stunning location with lush greenery. It should be preserved, and I believe BDA is undertaking a commendable project. I urge the BDA to keep the hill accessible for picnickers,” said Balaram Hota, a resident of Patia.
We also published the following articles recently
The Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) faces difficulties in selling over 3,500 unsold flats due to non-Vastu compliant designs, poor connectivity, and inadequate amenities. Despite efforts like online sales and discounts, results remain disappointing. BDA is now collaborating with private builders and focusing on better apartment management to resolve these issues.
Kochi’s city corporation and Cochin Smart Mission Ltd plan to finish replacing old streetlights with high lumen LED lights by the end of October. Approximately 30,000 LED lights have been installed so far, projected to save Rs 8 crore annually. Certain areas face issues due to damaged main lines and some newly installed lights getting damaged.
Schools in Uttarakhand’s hill districts are shutting down due to low enrolment and teacher shortages, while those in the plains are overcrowded. Migration from villages and socio-economic factors contribute to this situation. The state is working on developing cluster schools to improve infrastructure distribution and address these challenges.