A newly constructed washroom and changing room complex built by the Tourism Department near the historic Sri Omkareshwar Temple in Madikeri at a cost of Rs. 36.60 lakh was inaugurated by Madikeri MLA Dr. Mantar Gowda.
Speaking after inaugurating the facility, Dr. Gowda said there had been a long-standing demand for toilet and parking facilities in the temple precincts. Responding to this need, the Tourism Department sanctioned funds for the construction of separate toilet and changing room facilities for men and women at a cost of Rs. 36.60 lakh.
He noted that the temple attracts a large number of devotees throughout the year and that the absence of adequate sanitation facilities had caused inconvenience to visitors. In coordination with the Temple Management Committee, suitable land was identified and made available for the project, enabling the Tourism Department to construct a well-equipped facility.
The MLA urged devotees and the public to make proper use of the newly inaugurated amenities without causing damage to government property. He stressed the importance of maintaining cleanliness and ensuring a regular water supply for the facility.
Describing Sri Omkareshwar Temple as a place of historical and religious significance, Dr. Gowda said it was the collective responsibility of everyone to preserve and protect its heritage. He further assured that additional funds would be provided in the coming days for the overall development of the temple. On the occasion, the Temple Management Committee felicitated Dr. Mantar Gowda in recognition of his support for the project.
Municipal Council President P. Kalavathi, Omkareshwar Temple Committee President Chummi Devaiah, committee members G. Rajendra, Ambekal Kushalappa, Prakash Acharya, Santosh Bhat and Veenakshi, Executive Officer Devaraju, Tourism Department Deputy Director H. Shashidhar, Consultant Jatin Bopanna, Assistant Engineer S. Madan, K.G. Peter, Thennira Maina, Dinesh, Minaj Praveen, Prema, Kavan and several other dignitaries and members of the public were present.
