Tirupati, the spiritual gateway for millions of devotees visiting the sacred Tirumala temple, is set to undergo a major infrastructural transformation. The existing Tirupati bus stand will soon be replaced by a state-of-the-art intra-modal bus terminal, designed to enhance connectivity and offer a wide range of modern amenities for pilgrims and travelers.
The proposed terminal will be constructed at an estimated cost of ₹500 crore on a 12.19-acre parcel of the existing 13.18-acre site. The ambitious project aims to blend functionality with architectural aesthetics inspired by the famed Tirumala temple.
Multi-Use Infrastructure Across 10 Floors
The intra-modal terminal will feature a multi-level structure with the following configuration:
- Cellar (2 floors): Dedicated parking for cars and two-wheelers.
- Ground Floor: A modernized bus stand with 98 platforms, designated parking for 50 buses, and electric vehicle charging stations.
- 1st & 2nd Floors: Offices for APSRTC, along with food courts and retail outlets.
- 3rd Floor: Reserved for building utilities such as electrical systems, CCTV control, and other essential services.
- 4th to 7th Floors: Hotels, dormitories, and restaurants aimed at serving pilgrims and travelers.
- 8th to 10th Floors: Commercial spaces for banks, corporate offices, and government departments.
- A helipad will crown the 10th floor for emergency and VIP transit purposes.
- Total built-up area: 1.54 lakh square feet.
Strategic Partnerships and Funding Model
This public-private partnership model brings together multiple stakeholders:
- APSRTC will provide the prime land.
- National Highways Logistics Management Limited (NHLML), a central government PSU, will contribute a portion of the funding.
- A private contractor will be selected to execute the project and invest in its construction.
Following project completion, a revenue-sharing model between RTC, NHLML, and the contractor will be formalized, distributing earnings from the commercial components of the terminal (hotels, restaurants, office rentals, etc.).
Devotee-Centric Design and Connectivity
To ensure the project resonates with the city’s spiritual ethos, design consultancy RITES Ltd. has crafted an architectural plan that mimics the Tirumala temple’s façade, giving the terminal a sacred visual appeal.
In a move to ease pilgrim mobility, the plan includes a 1-kilometer skywalk that will directly connect the terminal to the Tirupati Railway Station, offering seamless integration for train and bus passengers.
Temporary Arrangements During Construction
To avoid disruption to bus services during construction, temporary bus stands will be set up in multiple locations, including:
- Mangalam Depot
- Tiruchanur Route
- Alipiri Area (Thithideh Land)
