CM sets Jan 10 as deadline to complete Mahamastakabhisheka works

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Saturday, directed the district administration to complete the development works, taken up as part of the Mahamastakabhisheka of Bahubali idol at Shravanabelagola, before January 10, 2018. The Mahamastakabhisheka, which is held once in 12 years, will be conducted from February 7 to 26, 2018.

After inspecting the works, the CM told the reporters that he has directed the authorities concerned to complete the works before the deadline. He is expected to conduct another round of inspection on January 15. "I have asked the officials of KSRTC, Horticulture, and Public Works department to complete the works. I will visit the town again after Sankranti festival," the CM said.

Mahamastakabhisheka Special Officer Rakesh Singh will supervise the works, district Minister A Manju, Deputy Commissioner Rohini Sindhuri and Mahamastakabhisheka Committee members will conduct progress review meetings once in 15 days, the CM said.

The CM said, "Nearly 40 lakh devotees are expected during the festivities and accommodation facility for 27,000 people will be made and 12 satellite towns will be established for the purpose. The government is committed to ensure sufficient facilities for the devotees."

Siddaramaiah said that health check-up clinics will be established at 15 places and 19 roads connecting Shravanabelagola will be developed at a cost of Rs 49 crore. International artistes will perform during the event and heli-tourism and water sports events will be introduced during the Mahamastakabhisheka, he said.

'No funds from Centre'

The state government had urged the Union government to provide funds for the celebration, but, we have not received any response, Siddaramaiah said. "The state has earmarked Rs 175 crore for the celebration. More funds will be provided if needed. Due to the implementation of Goods and Services Tax, Rs 15 crore will go towards tax," he said.

'Prez to inaugurate'

Siddaramaiah said that President of India Ram Nath Kovind will inaugurate the Mahamastakabhisheka and Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be invited for the function.

Prakrit University

The CM said, Shravanabelagola Jain Mutt pontiff Charukeerthi Bhattaraka Swami has given some suggestions. "The Prakrit University, which is planned in Shravanabelagola at a cost of Rs 21 crore is under way and the process of the tender will be finalised on November 30. The University Grants Commission (UGC) is yet to grant permission for the university. However, the construction of library and hostel has commenced," he said.

Earlier, the CM inspected the drinking water facility, works on the satellite towns and the bus stands.