Godavari Pushkaram: CM Revanth calls for improving pilgrim facilities, expanding ghats

Hyderabad: Ahead of Godavari Pushkaram, Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy on Sunday directed officials to strengthen infrastructure along the river basin.

The government is focusing on improving pilgrim facilities, connectivity, and coordination among departments.

Chairing a high-level review meeting, the Chief Minister emphasised that all key works, particularly the expansion of ghats at major temples and tourist locations, must be completed well ahead of the festival, which is scheduled for 2027.

Focus on ghat expansion and pilgrim infrastructure

The review meeting examined development plans for Pushkara ghats and temple infrastructure along the Godavari stretch from Basara to Bhadrachalam. Officials presented detailed proposals outlining the scope of work required to accommodate the expected surge in pilgrims.

The Chief Minister stressed the need for expanding ghats at key locations to ensure safe and efficient access for devotees during the Pushkaram.

Technical committee to identify locations

To streamline planning, the Chief Minister instructed officials to constitute a committee of technical engineers. This team will identify suitable locations for organising the Pushkaram-related activities.

He directed the committee to conduct field visits and submit a detailed report within 15 to 20 days. The findings will then be reviewed by a committee of officials, which will prepare comprehensive cost estimates before forwarding the proposal to a Cabinet Sub-committee.

Multi-level approval process

The Chief Minister outlined a structured approval mechanism for the project. After scrutiny by the Cabinet Sub-committee, the final decision on the development plans will be taken by the State Cabinet.

He also emphasised that both permanent and temporary works must be prioritised and executed in a phased manner to meet the deadline.

‘War Room’ for better coordination

Highlighting the importance of inter-departmental coordination, the Chief Minister ordered the establishment of a dedicated “War Room” at Praja Bhavan.

This centralised system is expected to monitor progress, address bottlenecks, and ensure seamless coordination among various government departments involved in the preparations.

Focus on connectivity and roads

The Chief Minister further directed officials to ensure that road infrastructure and connectivity across regions are strengthened to avoid logistical issues during the event.

Improved transport networks will play a critical role in managing the anticipated influx of devotees from across the country.

Basara temple development plan reviewed

During the meeting, officials also presented a master plan for the development and expansion of the Sri Gnana Saraswathi Temple at Basara.

The Chief Minister reviewed the proposals and offered suggestions aimed at enhancing facilities and improving the overall experience for pilgrims visiting the temple.

With the Godavari Pushkaram expected to draw massive crowds, the state government is aiming for early planning and execution to ensure smooth, safe, and well-organised arrangements, he added.