RAJAMAHENDRAVARAM: Elaborate and systematic arrangements will be made for the upcoming Godavari Pushkarams, ensuring that devotees are provided accommodation at reasonable and affordable prices.
The number of bathing ghats will be increased from 234 to 373, including 70 dedicated pindapradana ghats.
New ghats will be constructed and old ones repaired with emphasis on quality and safety standards. As part of Pushkaram preparations, Tourism Minister Kandula Durgesh said all works related to the mega spiritual event, scheduled for next year, must commence immediately.
Minister Kandula Durgesh after reviewing the Godavari Pushakarams with officials informed that Rs 60 crore has already been earmarked in the State budget for preliminary arrangements and directed all departments to prepare detailed proposals without delay. Two large tent cities will be set up at Bridge Lanka and Pichchukalanka near Rajamahendravaram to cater to the expected influx of pilgrims.
In addition to the existing 4,800 rooms available in the Pushkaram region, officials have been instructed to identify vacant lands, open grounds, and function halls to create additional temporary accommodation facilities. Homestays will also be encouraged, but with strict monitoring to ensure prices remain within reach of common devotees.
Officials told the minister Durgesh that nearly 10 crore devotees are expected to attend the Pushkarams.
On key days such as the first day, weekends, and Amavasya, footfall may touch one crore per day. A grand curtain-raiser event will be organized in Rajamahendravaram this June, a year ahead of the Pushkarams, to create awareness and generate momentum.
Road restoration and expansion works spanning nearly 3,000 km will be launched shortly. Six joint collectors from the concerned districts will act as nodal officers to ensure inter-departmental coordination.