Beautification of capital Bhubaneswar, especially Ekamra project Work has been opposed by ASI. Bhubaneswar ASI circle’s superintending archaeologist Arun Malliick wrote letter to BMC, Khordha Collector, state tourism department & OBCC, objecting the method of work. Especially he showed his finger to places which are protected monuments & any work is simply prohibited there. Even the superintending archaeologist pointed out that the historical monument protected by ASI, that is Sari Temple to which anything may happen due to the use of jcb which has been already done, according to him. Under ASI, there are 79 historical monuments out of which 27 are at Bhubaneswar only. The state GOVT, especially CM Naveen Pattnaik is eager to give a modern look to the capital for which Ekamra project approved by the state Cabinet recently. Sri Lingaraj Temple including Bindusagar tank & the encircling area are within project to be renovated. It is a fact that according to “ancient monuments & archaeological sights & remains” (AMASR) act, around the ASI protected monuments no work can be done within 200mts regulated area. If necessity arises then National Monument Authority should give NOC for the same. It also happen in 2019 & ASI complained which has been again repeated in 2020.
After all, ASI should not be crazy about the law without looking the future of local tourism which is part & parcel of state & country itself to help the economy at last.