The state government has decided to set up a tourist interpretation centre near Lingaraj temple here. Tourists visiting the 11th century Shiva shrine will be updated about the historical relevance and rituals of almost all the major temples of Bhubaneswar at the interpretation centre as per a report in TOI by Debabrata Mohapatra

A decision in this regard was taken at a high-level meeting, presided over by tourism minister Prafulla Samal on Monday. Officers of BDA, BMC, ASI and endowment wing were present at the meeting.

"Around 60 tourists will be accommodated at the interpretation centre, where big screens with audio visual systems would be installed," said the temple executive officer Abani Pattnaik.

Besides, to keep the temple front spacious and open, the government has decided to demolish the row of shops in front of the shrine. "Around 20 shops would be razed down. Other encroachments would be removed too. Nearly 282 decimal of private land would be acquired for development purpose," Pattnaik said.

A spacious road connecting Lingaraj temple and Debi Padahara heritage tank is also on the anvil. Besides, the BMC is to develop a parking lot near the tank. Currently the temple front remains choked due to the movement and parking of vehicles.

Adding to devotees' comfort would be a walkway (parikrama) around the temple, where pilgrims can take roundabout turns. Landscaping around the shrine will help soothe the eyes along with the soul.

"The Old Town residents would also be sensitized not to desert their pet animals on the road, which not only creates a visually insulting sight, but causes traffic problems too," Pattnaik said.

It was also decided in the meeting to renovate several unexplored mutts and temples in Old Town soon.