Bhubaneswar’s Lingaraj Temple Area Lacks Functional Toilets Despite Beautification
Bhubaneswar: Despite extensive beautification under the Ekamra Kshetra project — including major development around the Lingaraj Temple and Kedar Gouri Temple — visitors continue to struggle with a basic necessity: clean, functional public toilets.
A new toilet complex built nearly a year ago near the southeast corner of the Lingaraj Temple remains unopened due to the absence of a proper drainage system. With the facility lying unused, tourists and devotees are often forced to relieve themselves along the roadside, leaving local residents frustrated.
Toilet Demolished, But No Replacement Yet
During the previous government’s beautification drive, an old toilet near the Lingaraj market was demolished. In its place, a small toilet meant primarily for market vendors was constructed. Although two toilets near the market are technically available for the public, locals say they open irregularly and cannot meet the increasing demand. The temporary e-toilet that once stood near the temple has also been removed.
A similar situation exists near other heritage sites such as Kedar Gouri, Mukteswar, and Parsurameswar temples. A toilet demolished six years ago is still awaiting reconstruction. With only one functional toilet available near the Devi Padahara pond, devotees, tourists, shopkeepers, and temple servitors face daily inconvenience.
Tourist Rush Likely to Intensify Crisis
With the winter tourist season approaching, footfall to these heritage sites is set to rise sharply. As part of the Ekamra Development Plan, the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) had promised to install temporary toilets immediately after demolishing the old structures near the Lingaraj Temple. However, even after five years, the commitment remains unfulfilled.
Locals also complain that the new state government has not taken any steps to resolve the long-pending issue, despite the fact that it impacts one of India’s most significant pilgrimage and heritage destinations.
