Tirumala to be a role model for devotional centers: TTD EO Shyamala Rao

 

 

 

 

Tirumala : Dec 22: The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) executive officer, Shyamala Rao, unveiled ambitious plans to transform Tirumala into a role model for devotional centers across the globe. Speaking about the developments over the past six months, Shyamala Rao highlighted a series of initiatives aimed at enhancing facilities for devotees, in line with Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu's vision of prioritizing common devotees. Shyamala Rao emphasized that measures have been taken to protect the sanctity of Tirumala, ensuring that the services provided by TTD leave a lasting impression on devotees. Special attention has been given to queue management, significantly reducing wait times. Improvements have also been made to the quality of Anna Prasadam and the iconic Tirumala Laddu, ensuring better standards for devotees. Focus on Infra development A comprehensive "Tirumala Vision Plan" is being prepared under the directives of the Chief Minister. The plan includes upgrading the TUDA Master Plan introduced in 2019, with consultations underway with expert firms to shape Tirumala's future. He outlined several key projects such as reconstruction of select areas and improvement of footpaths, establishment of multi-level parking facilities, expansion of new roads and link roads, eodernization of the Tirumala bus stand and eevelopment of a 42-acre base camp at Alipiri to regulate vehicular influx. “Construction and development in Tirumala will strictly adhere to urban design guidelines,” Shyamala Rao added. He also addressed concerns about non-Hindu employees working in TTD, reiterating the board’s decision to either transfer such employees to other departments or offer them voluntary retirement schemes (VRS). Revamping religious activities Highlighting the importance of devotion among the younger generation, he announced collaborations with spiritual leaders like Chaganti Koteswara Rao. The TTD has also allocated Rs 100 crore for the All Hindu Religious Project, aiming to revitalize 61 temples under its purview. Experts have been engaged to provide suggestions for the development of these affiliated temples. In Tiruchanur, issues such as unclean streets, inadequate drainage systems, and the development of Akasha Ganga and Papavinasanam are being tackled with renewed vigor. “A detailed plan for improving the underground drainage system is in progress to address future needs,” he said. Additionally, a new TTD laboratory will soon ensure the use of high-quality ghee for prasadam preparation, enhancing the trust and satisfaction of devotees. An audit of the programs held over the past three years is currently underway, with expert committees being formed to provide recommendations for future religious programs.