STAFF REPORTER
GUWAHATI: As decided earlier, the State Government has taken a step forward for the development of two archeological and heritage sites of the State – the Hatimura Archeological Site near Jakhalabondha in Nagaon district and the Aswaklanta Devalaya at North Guwahati in Kamrup district. The development of the sites includes development of their infrastructure, beautification, etc.
A decision for the development of various archeological and heritage sites of the State was taken last financial year. In the latest step to this effect, the work order for the development of the Hatimura Archeological Site has already been issued by the Directorate of Archeology. The cost of the project is around Rs 2.07 crore.
Meanwhile, the tender for the development Aswaklanta Devalaya has been floated and the work order will be issued as early as possible, sources in the Directorate said. The cost of the project is around Rs 1.45 crore. State Archeology Minister Keshab Mahanta and top officers of the Directorate of Archeology had visited the two sites many times before preparing the detailed project report (DPR) and cost estimates.
Talking to The Sentinel, State Archeology Minister Keshab Mahanta said, "We had a decision to develop the archeological sites and monuments of the State under the SOPD-G (State-Owned Priority Development-General) Scheme. Now we're going to develop the archeological sites of the State under this scheme."