Godavari Pushkaralu works to be expedited: DC
In Short
- Ghat construction, pilgrim facilities reviewed
- 200 workers deployed for temple works
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Godavari Pushkaralu works to be expedited: DC
Bhadrachalam: District Collector Ankit directed officials to expedite arrangements for the upcoming Godavari Pushkaralu, with a focus on the development of the Sri Sitaramachandra Swamy temple, construction of bathing ghats and creation of essential infrastructure for pilgrims at Bhadrachalam.
During a field inspection on Tuesday, the Collector reviewed development works near the northern entrance and reviewed construction activities on the northern and southern sides.
The Collector also inspected the road connecting the temple to the Godavari bathing ghats and discussed a proposal to widen the existing 25-foot-wide road by another five feet to facilitate the movement of pilgrims. He asked the Roads and Buildings and Revenue departments to coordinate on land-related issues, permissions, funding and pending bills.
Reviewing access to the Vaikunthadham, he directed officials to prepare plans for an alternative road to ease traffic congestion during the festival. The Collector reviewed the construction of bathing ghats measuring approximately 270 m on the northern side and 230 metres on the southern side. He instructed officials to ensure strong construction of steps, landing areas and retaining walls and undertake repairs wherever cracks had developed in existing walls.
He also directed officials to expedite the tender process for works at Parnasala and initiate construction at the earliest.
Officials informed him that a dormitory hall was being constructed under the Endowments Department to accommodate pilgrims. The Collector also reviewed development works at the gosala and discussed proposals to provide infrastructure at Bhadrachalam, Cherla, Aswapuram, Dummugudem, Parnasala and areas around Kinnerasani. During an inspection of the Sarapaka bridge area, the Collector held discussions with ITC representatives and officials on beautification of the approximately three-kilometre road stretch from ITC to the Bhadrachalam bridge.
He suggested developing road medians and planting flowering plants, including bougainvillea, along suitable stretches. A comprehensive plan for the beautification project should be prepared within a week, he directed.
He said around 200 workers and 10 dedicated teams had been deployed to speed up construction on the northern and southern sides of the temple. Work was being carried out from 6 am to 10 pm with lighting arrangements to meet deadlines linked to Mukkoti Ekadasi, Sri Rama Navami and the Godavari Pushkaralu.
He said proposals had been submitted to the government for providing necessary facilities at Kinnerasani, Aswapuram, Dummugudem, Parnasala and other surrounding areas to manage the anticipated influx of pilgrims.
The Collector directed officials to plan in advance for the Sri Rama Navami celebrations in March and the Godavari Pushkaralu scheduled from June 27 to July 7. Arrangements for drinking water, sanitation, transport, police security and medical services should be taken up in phases to ensure that pilgrims face no inconvenience, he added.
Preparatory activities should begin in a planned manner from November and December to ensure better facilities for devotees during the festival, he said.
