Will make Tirumala, Tirupati world-class spiritual centres

Tirumala: Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu has reiterated that ensuring a smooth and hassle-free darshan for every pilgrim will remain the top priority of the state government, which is planning a major expansion of facilities and infrastructure in Tirumala and Tirupati.

Speaking to the media in Tirumala on Wednesday, Naidu said the twin temple towns would be developed into a world-class spiritual and service destination by combining devotion, public service, and technology.

The Chief Minister said Tirupati should also become a major centre of economic activity, with the steady flow of pilgrims generating opportunities for local services and businesses. Naidu said there was a proposal to hold Srivari Brahmotsavams in Tirupati in addition to the one in Tirumala. The annual festival had an important role in bringing people together spiritually and could further strengthen Tirupati’s identity as a major religious destination, he said.

The Chief Minister also expatiated on the idea of developing Tirupati as a wedding destination. He said the celestial weddings conducted at Tirumala had a special significance and the city could be promoted as a destination for weddings and related activities. Describing Tirumala as one of the cleanest and well-managed temple destinations in the country, Naidu said the 2,300-year-old temple should be developed to global standards, while preserving its spiritual and cultural importance.

The Chief Minister said that details relating to Srivari properties, jewellery, gold, funds, and land were available online, stressing transparency in the management of temple assets. On Tirupati’s infrastructure, Naidu said a skywalk connecting the railway station and bus stand was being proposed and would be taken up with central assistance. A multi-level parking facility was planned on 50 acres recently acquired by the government. Steps would also be taken to improve Tirupati’s connectivity with various highways.

The government was taking steps to provide house sites to 5,192 TTD employees at an estimated cost of Rs 230 crore, while a court complex was being developed in Tirupati at a cost of Rs 90 crore.

Naidu stressed the need to make Tirumala and Tirupati environmentally sustainable through a net-zero approach. Solar panels should be installed on TTD buildings, while promoting greater use of wind power and battery storage. He noted that TTD currently generated about one crore units of electricity against consumption of nearly 10 crore units. A zero-waste system and circular economy approach should also be adopted.

Under the Pranadanam Trust, medical services will be strengthened by linking the Sri Venkateswara Institute of Medical Sciences (SVIMS), the Balaji Institute of Surgery, Research and Rehabilitation for the Disabled (BIRRD), Ruia and children’s hospitals. Tie-ups with non-profit speciality and cancer hospitals in Tirupati would also be explored.

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Pradeep Vennelakanti & Dusi Venkateswara Rao

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