TTD to build addl toilets for pilgrims

Tirupati: The TTD has decided to construct additional toilet blocks in Tirumala as part of implementing the master plan at a cost of Rs 26 crore. Based on the feedback received by Srivari Sevaks from the pilgrims, the TTD officials came to know that existing toilets are not enough when the pilgrim rush is more on the auspicious days like Brahmotsavams and Vaikunta Ekadasi.

A master plan was drawn with the architecture support of Sulabh International for constructing the additional toilet blocks. The existing toilets have a capacity to meet the needs of 1.75 lakh pilgrims in Tirumala shrine. It may be noted that the TTD Trust Board gave the administrative sanction to build 91 new blocks for toilets to meet the additional capacity of 2.25 lakh pilgrims.

EO Anil Kumar Singhal has fixed a deadline of completing the construction of toilets by September end and toilet blocks would come up at parking slots in Rambagicha, Medara Metta, Kalyana Vedika, Narayanagiri Gardens, four mada streets and newly identified vehicle parking areas. With the construction of new toilet blocks, the total capacity of would be increased for meeting the needs of 4 lakh pilgrims.

According to TTD engineering officials, no other temple in India has such large number of toilets except in Tirumala. Speaking to The Hans India, Superintendent Engineer-II Ramchandra Reddy said toilets are being constructed with high quality.