Sirpur gets new shape

Chhattisgarh Govt to take up projects to develop World-famous historical site

Chhattisgarh government would take up infrastructure development projects in Sirpur to develop the world-famous historic site as the enchanting tourist destination.

Located about 80 km from the state capital in Mahasamund district of Chhattisgarh, Sirpur had been emerging as a preferred destination for the home and international tourists. The place is on the bank of holy Mahanadi river and is completely merged with the cultural and architectural arts.

The town of Sirpur had been mentioned in ancient epigraphic records, dating back to the 5th to the 8th centuries A.D. The city had been the capital of the Sarbhapuriya and Somvanshi Kings of Dakshin (south) Kosala now known as Chhattisgarh. Being an important centre of Buddhist from the 6th the 10th century A.D., tourists from Asian countries had been including Sirpur in itinerary.

The place had been visited by Hieun Tsang, the 7th Century Chinese Pilgrimist and Scholar. It is believed that a devastating earthquate buries the ancient town under mud and debris in the 12th century.

Chhattisgarh government had started the initiative to explore the place in the World tourist map. The excavation work under the supervision of hired archeological consultant Dr Arun Kumar Sharma was going on in the site. The government had now decided to take up infrastructure development projects.

"Sirpur will now be developed as a heritage village," a government spokesperson said. Chief Secretary Vivek Dhand had asked the officials of the department concerned to take serious action in executing the plan.

Dhand visited Sirpur; convened meeting of officials at the site itself and gave the necessary directions.

Under the projects, a tourist road would be developed connecting Sirpur with Barnawapara sanctuary and Turturiya---another tourist destination with Buddhist remains.

The state government had also identified 183 acres of land near Kodar Dam between Sirpur and Turturiya for taking up beautification and infrastructure development projects.