MP Pushes for Federal Funding to Transform Indrakeeladri into Global Spiritual Hub

Infrastructure Deficit at Andhra Pradesh’s Premier Hill Shrine

Vijayawada MP Kesineni Sivanath (Chinni) addressed the Lok Sabha on Wednesday, identifying a significant gap between the growing religious significance of the Sri Kanaka Durga temple and its current physical capacity. As the second most visited pilgrimage site in Andhra Pradesh after Tirumala, the temple atop Indrakeeladri attracts millions of visitors annually. Major festivals such as Dasara, Sharan Navaratri, Teppotsavam, and Bhavani Deeksha drive massive surges in domestic and international attendance, stretching local resources to their limits.

Sivanath argued that the steady rise in pilgrim footfall necessitates a shift from temporary fixes to permanent, high-capacity infrastructure. He urged the Central government to incorporate the site into the Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASAD) scheme to facilitate holistic site development.

Proposed Transit and Amenity Upgrades

Specific improvements outlined in the MP's proposal target logistics and accessibility. Key requirements include:

• Installation of a modern ropeway system under the Parvatmala scheme to aid senior citizens and devotees with disabilities.
• Construction of multi-level parking structures to alleviate chronic traffic congestion.
• Establishment of digital information centers and modern pilgrim amenity complexes.
• Expansion of road networks and the implementation of a permanent traffic management framework.
• Improved sanitation, drinking water systems, and expanded rest areas.

Economic Implications of Spiritual Tourism

Drawing direct comparisons to the redevelopment initiatives in Ayodhya and Varanasi, Sivanath framed the project as a catalyst for regional economic growth. He asserted that elevating the temple to a world-class spiritual destination would trigger a ripple effect across the local economy. Beyond religious significance, the MP noted that such development would provide sustainable support for the hospitality sector, transport providers, local artisans, and small business owners throughout Vijayawada.

Source: The Hindu — News