Tirumala Vision-2047: A Bold Step Towards Transforming the Sacred City
In a significant move aimed at modernizing the revered pilgrimage town of Tirumala, Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) Executive Officer (EO), J. Syamala Rao, outlined the ambitious goals of the Tirumala Vision-2047 initiative. Speaking during a media briefing at Annamayya Bhavan on Sunday, the EO provided insights into the ongoing developments and future plans under this visionary project, emphasizing the objective of transforming Tirumala into a model city that balances modernity with spiritual sanctity.
Key Highlights of Tirumala Vision-2047
- Infrastructure Modernization
One of the primary components of the Vision-2047 is the extensive renovation and modernization of the town’s infrastructure. Plans include the renovation of footpaths, the introduction of multi-level parking, smart parking systems, and the construction of new link roads and subways. Notable redevelopment projects also involve the reconstruction of Ram Bhageecha and Balaji Bus Stands to better cater to the growing number of visitors. - Accommodation and Facilities
To enhance the accommodation facilities for pilgrims, a 40-acre base camp is being developed near Alipiri, along with the construction of spiritual-themed buildings in Tirumala. These new facilities are intended to provide more comfortable stays while maintaining the spiritual ambiance of the town. - Quality and Service Enhancements
TTD has undertaken several initiatives to improve the services offered to devotees. A key highlight is the distribution of laddus and other prasadams made with pure ghee, ensuring the highest standards of quality. In addition, a ₹70 lakh in-house quality testing lab, donated by the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), has been set up to monitor food safety. TTD has also focused on improving sanitation, reducing waiting times, and streamlining queue management during major events like the recent Brahmotsavams at Tirumala and Tiruchanur. - Devotee-Centric Initiatives
As part of the Vision, TTD plans to rename 45 guesthouses with spiritual names, replacing individual names. This change is in line with the overarching goal of promoting a deeper sense of spirituality in the region. Furthermore, TTD has emphasized increasing youth involvement in the promotion of Sanatana Dharma, in collaboration with government advisor Chaganti Koteswara Rao. - Sustainability and Environmental Focus
In line with sustainable development goals, the Vision-2047 project includes initiatives for better waste management, including the establishment of separate drains for rainwater and sewage. Additionally, measures for effective traffic regulation, parking management, and encroachment control are being put in place to ensure a smoother experience for devotees. - Technological Integration
TTD is also leveraging technology to enhance the pilgrim experience. Plans are in motion to develop a chatbot with AI capabilities, akin to ChatGPT, to assist devotees with real-time information. Furthermore, technology-driven systems are being introduced to ensure efficient darshan and accommodation booking processes, guaranteeing that devotees receive services on time. - Temple Development and Cultural Preservation
The Vision-2047 project aims to develop 61 temples under TTD’s administration, ensuring their preservation and systematic development. This will also help boost the spiritual significance of Tirumala while accommodating the growing needs of devotees. The entire initiative is being executed in accordance with the 2019 TUDA Master Plan, with updated data from 2017 to ensure that the town’s infrastructure remains aligned with current requirements. - Addressing Malpractices
TTD is taking strict action against individuals exploiting devotees by circumventing institutional systems. Vigilance and police teams have been mobilized to ensure that such malpractices are prevented. - Staff Restructuring
As part of ongoing administrative reforms, TTD has taken measures to reassign 31 non-Hindu employees to government departments or offer them a Voluntary Retirement Scheme (VRS), ensuring that all staff align with the temple’s religious ethos. - Strategic Planning and Audits
Proposals for Tirumala Vision-2047 have been solicited, in line with the broader Swarnandhra Vision-2047. Comprehensive audits are being conducted for the existing HEEDPP programs to improve their effectiveness, and further plans are underway to transform Tirumala into a benchmark of temple development across the nation.
Looking Ahead
With approximately 18 major projects under planning, the Vision-2047 initiative promises to revolutionize the pilgrim town of Tirumala. Nine detailed reports have already been prepared, and work is progressing swiftly to create a model city that offers state-of-the-art infrastructure, world-class facilities for devotees, and sustainable practices to preserve the town’s sacred atmosphere.
The Tirumala Vision-2047 initiative is poised to make a profound impact, ensuring that the holy town of Tirumala remains not only a center of religious significance but also a beacon of modern development and innovation for the future.
TTD Additional EO C.H. Venkayya Chowdary, JEO Smt. Gauthami, CVSO Sridhar, CE Satyanarayana, and other key officials were also present during the briefing.
