Following is an excerpt from a report in Telegraph.

The largest integrated tourism project of the state — Samuka — is coming up on 3,000 acres of land on the sea beach near Puri. The project involves an investment of Rs 116.59 crore and is being implemented on public-private partnership (PPP) mode.

… The project had been visualised as a one-stop rejuvenation facility for “body and mind of tourists” and provide business opportunities to private investors while protecting the tourism interest of the state, official sources said.

The principal project components include star hotels, resorts, international convention centre, golf course, golf villas, cultural villages and craft bazaar.

Chief secretary Bijay Patnaik reviewed the progress of the proposed project at the state secretariat here today. At present, development plan has been prepared for 972 acres by the state tourism department and state-run Orissa Tourism Development Corporation, an official said.

“Protect natural beauty and environment while developing integrated tourism project along the sea shore. The project should aim at preservation and promotion of the state’s tourist potentials,” Patnaik told officials at the review meeting.

To take Samuka ahead, the Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation of Orissa (Idco) has already acquired 972 acres.

“Puri district collector has submitted proposal for further acquisition of 622 acres for a cost of Rs 4.81 crore. The government is examining the proposal. Tenders have been invited from hoteliers for construction of hotels and sea resorts. The committee has decided to invite and negotiate with interested investors and builders to give shape to the commercially viable components of the projects,” he added. The Idco has also constructed approach road to the proposed site for Rs 7.63 crore.

“The state energy department has been asked to supply power to the site for which Rs 37.56 crore will be spent.

“Water supply to the site will be provided for an investment of Rs 63.77 crore,” the official said.

It is good that the Chief Secretary has started reviewing the various large projects. I hope he does that regularly until the projects are completed.