80 lakh pilgrims attend Medaram Jatara so far, says Minister Ponguleti

LatestPoliticsTelangana
By HNH Web Desk
80 lakh pilgrims Medaram

Hyderabad: Around 80 lakh pilgrims have visited the Medaram Sammakka-Saralamma Maha Jatara so far, Telangana Revenue Minister Ponguleti Srinivas Reddy said on Thursday. He stated that the number could cross one crore by the time Sammakka arrives at the altar.

Speaking to the media from the jatara site in Medaram, the Minister said the festival has seen an unprecedented rise in turnout. Moreover, devotees are arriving not only from across Telangana but also from Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Chhattisgarh.

Medaram Jatara sees historic turnout and infrastructure push

Ponguleti said the government is closely monitoring arrangements to ensure smooth conduct of the event. Additionally, he confirmed that 29 acres of land have already been acquired for the permanent development of the jatara site. Another 41 acres are in the process of acquisition.

In total, about 70 acres will be developed with permanent infrastructure, including cottages, function halls, toilets, and bathrooms. Furthermore, Ponguleti added that the festival’s cultural significance has prompted the State to integrate Medaram into a ₹2,500 crore temple circuit development project. This project spans from Basara to Bhadrachalam.

The Medaram shrine will feature in the Godavari basin temple circuit, he noted. A master plan has been finalised for the area, covering internal road development, eco-park creation, and tourism expansion.

Government plans more facilities for pilgrims

Minister for Panchayat Raj Seethakka also addressed the media, highlighting that road travel has improved this year due to the construction of four-lane roads. She also stressed the need for a permanent drinking water supply and more toilet facilities in the future.

Given the expected summer heat, the government has decided to undertake a large-scale tree plantation drive in Medaram, she said.

 

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