Patna's Badi Patan Devi Temple Tourism Plan Drastically Scaled Down Due to Technical Constraints
The proposed ambitious plan to develop the historic Badi Patan Devi temple in Patna City into a prominent tourist destination has been significantly scaled down due to various technical and logistical constraints. While the original vision included extensive infrastructure enhancements, the project has now been limited to more basic facilities, reflecting practical challenges in the densely populated area.
Original Grand Vision vs. Revised Reality
Initially, the comprehensive development plan, prepared in 2024, envisioned transforming the temple precincts with a grand entrance gate on Ashok Rajpath, a nearly 2-kilometer-long circumambulatory (parikrama) pathway encircling the temple, and multiple modern amenities. The proposal included two multilevel parking facilities capable of accommodating approximately 150 vehicles—one each at the Ashok Rajpath and Shershah Road entrances—along with the construction of decorative gates at both entry points.
Additionally, the plan aimed to convert the existing toilet facility into a modern amenities complex featuring rooms and a hall for visitors, enhancing the overall experience for pilgrims and tourists. This grand vision was backed by an approved budget of around Rs7.8 crore, signaling a significant investment in boosting religious tourism in the region.
Reasons for Scaling Down the Project
However, the comprehensive plan had to be abandoned due to several pressing issues. Key challenges included:
- Land unavailability in the congested temple vicinity, making large-scale construction unfeasible.
- Severe congestion in the densely populated Patna City area, which complicated traffic management and infrastructure expansion.
- Technical constraints related to urban planning and heritage conservation, requiring a more modest approach.
As a result, the project scope has been drastically reduced, with the revised plan focusing primarily on the construction of a toilet complex and a parking facility. The project cost has been slashed to about Rs1 crore, representing a substantial reduction from the original allocation.
Current Implementation Status
The work is being executed by the Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation Limited (BSTDC), which is overseeing the scaled-down initiatives. At present, construction of a G+2 toilet building near the temple is underway, with an estimated cost of over Rs70 lakh. This facility aims to provide essential amenities for visitors, addressing basic hygiene needs.
Regarding parking, a multilevel parking facility for over 150 vehicles is being constructed on Ashok Rajpath by the tourism department. However, the proposed parking project on Shershah Road has been dropped due to the aforementioned constraints. Meanwhile, renovation work of the ancient Badi Patan Devi temple itself is being carried out separately by the local engineering office, ensuring the preservation of its religious and historical significance.
Historical and Religious Significance of the Temple
Located in the heart of Patna City, the ancient Badi Patan Devi temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and holds immense religious importance. It is believed to be the site where the right thigh of Goddess Sati fell, making it one of the revered Shakti Peethas in Hinduism. This spiritual significance has long attracted devotees, underscoring the potential for tourism development, albeit now in a more limited capacity.
The scaling down of the project highlights the complexities of urban development in historic and crowded areas, balancing aspirations for tourism growth with practical realities. While the grand vision may have been curtailed, the ongoing efforts by BSTDC and local authorities aim to enhance visitor facilities in a sustainable manner, respecting the temple's sacred environment and the community's needs.
