Madhya Pradesh Shelves 'Mamleshwar Lok' Corridor After Local Backlash

The Madhya Pradesh government has halted its Rs 120 crore 'Mamleshwar Lok' project in Omkareshwar due to local opposition. Residents and saints opposed the corridor, planned to showcase religious heritage, leading to business closures and inconvenience for pilgrims. A new proposal may be considered with community consensus.

The Madhya Pradesh government's ambitious plan to create a 'Mamleshwar Lok' corridor in Omkareshwar met with vehement opposition, leading to its withdrawal on Tuesday. Local citizens and saints were the main voices against the Rs 120 crore project, initially fashioned after Ujjain's 'Shri Mahakal Lok'.

Located on the banks of the Narmada River, Omkareshwar holds religious significance as one of the 12 key 'jyotirlingas' of Lord Shiva. Amidst widespread protest and shutdowns by local businesses, which affected pilgrims' access to basic amenities, authorities decided to pause the project to respect community sentiments.

Additional District Magistrate Kashiram Barole noted the possibility of reviving the project with a new location in Omkareshwar if local leaders agree. The original plan, which included a 6.50-hectare development surrounding the Mamleshwar temple, aimed to enhance religious tourism by showcasing the site's rich heritage.

(With inputs from agencies.)