By Kavita Sharma
Photo Credit: The Suncity News
Patna, May 25, 2026:
Pratyaya Amrit, the Chief Secretary of Bihar, on Monday, reaffirmed the Bihar government’s commitment to transforming Punaura Dham, believed to be the birthplace of Goddess Sita, into a grand, world-class religious and tourism destination on the lines of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra.
A high-level review meeting on the progress of the ambitious project was chaired by the Chief Secretary, during which he conducted a detailed assessment of all aspects related to the holistic development of the temple complex.
Pratyaya Amrit highlighted that the project is the state government’s top priority:
During the review, Pratyaya Amrit emphasized that the development of Punaura Dham ranks among the Bihar government’s highest priorities.
He stated that no negligence or delay in implementation would be tolerated and directed all agencies to ensure the timely completion of work with strict quality standards.
The Chief Secretary instructed the construction agency and the Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation to complete all targets scheduled between May 10 and August 10, 2026, within the stipulated timeframe.
He directed officials to accelerate construction of the internal road network within the temple complex, complete an alternate public access route by July 10, 2026, expedite land transfer procedures involving the Gayatri Mandir Trust, and ensure the vacating of the three remaining structures of Sita Rasoi, the Peethadhishwar residence, and Gayatri Mandir, to prevent delay in construction.
Additionally, officials were instructed to finalize verification of all critical foundation and structural drawings by July 22, 2026.
Focus on the pilgrim experience:
During the meeting, special emphasis was placed on creating world-class facilities for devotees and tourists.
Pratyaya Amrit directed planners to design the temple complex in a manner that offers an exceptional spiritual and cultural experience for visitors arriving from across India and abroad.
The authorities have planned to provide facilities within the complex, including a grand main temple, a pilgrim rest house, a digital gallery, and parks and other public amenities.
In the concluding remarks, Pratyaya Amrit stated that Punaura Dham is not merely a tourism project but a sacred centre of faith for millions of devotees.
He further directed senior Tourism Department officials to conduct regular on-site inspections to personally monitor the physical progress of the work and ensure adherence to deadlines.
The proposed transformation of Punaura Dham is expected to significantly strengthen Bihar’s religious tourism sector while also enhancing infrastructure and employment opportunities in the region.
EOM.
