TTD to develop Vontimitta temple as pilgrim centre

** TTD EO D Sambasiva Rao inspects ongoing development works
** Says Lord’s kalyanam will be performed on February 28 with religious fervour

Vontimitta: TTD EO Dr D Sambasiva Rao said that the ancient temple of Lord Sri Rama located at Vontimitta in Kadapa district will be developed as one of the prime pilgrim centres.

After inspecting the ongoing development works here on Saturday, the EO said that the TTD has recently taken over four temples including Vontimitta, Chandragiri, Upamaka and Anantavaram which have historical importance. “We have also allotted a budget of Rs 20 crore towards the development of Vontimitta temple in first phase.

Currently, development works worth Rs 4 crore is in progress, he stated adding it also includes beautification of temple premises. “Since this temple is under ASI we need their permission to construct permanent structures,” he said.

The TTD EO said plans are underway to execute more development works worth Rs 8 crore. “We are contemplating to complete the immediate pending development works in the mid of April and gear up for upcoming big fete Sri Rama Navami,” he added. The EO said Lord’s kalyanam will be performed on February 28 with religious fervour in the 70 acre of TTD land located adjacent to the temple. He requested local people to take part in this festival in massive numbers.

Tirupati JEO P Bhaskar, District Collector Venkatramana, CE Chandrasekhar Reddy, Additional CVSO Sivakumar Reddy and others were also present.