A sum of Rs 882.87 crore has been sanctioned for the construction of a grand Mata Janaki temple at the historic Punora Dham in Sitamarhi. The construction will be carried out in three phases. This includes the renovation of the old temple at Punora Dham at a cost of Rs 137.34 crore, the development of tourism-related infrastructure with an expenditure of Rs 728 crore, and a provision of Rs 16.62 crore for its maintenance for 10 years. The decision was made during a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. The meeting approved 24 agendas. Religious tourism is an integral part of the country’s culture. The Punora Dham, the birthplace of Devi Sita, holds special religious and touristic significance. In line with this, the Mata Janaki temple is being constructed at Punora Dham on the lines of the Ram temple in Ayodhya. The implementation of the plan, including the publication of tenders on the EPC model, execution, and implementation of the plan, is being carried out at the level of the Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation. This place is a major part of the Ramayana circuit. The government’s efforts will establish a direct connection between Ayodhya Dham and Punora Dham, fostering the development of tourism and catering to the sentiments of devotees.
