K'taka to spend Rs 42.5 cr at Tirumala

In an effort to improve the accommodation facilities for pilgrims at Tirumala near Tirupati (Andhra Pradesh), the Karnataka government plans to spend Rs 42.5 crore in phases.

According to a statement from the Karnataka Religious Endowments Department, the government will take up developmental works, including construction of additional buildings, renovation of existing lodging facilities and construction of housing complexes at Tirumala.

The Karnataka State Charities was in possession 7.6 acres of land at Tirumala where accommodation for pilgrims from Karnataka was being provided.

However, following the introduction of Andhra Pradesh Inams Abolition Act 1956, the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) took over ownership of the land. Consequently, the Karnataka government could not improve the accommodation facilities.

For two decades, Karnataka was awaiting multiple clearances from the TTD to take up construction and repair works. Following discussions between governments of the two states, the TTD recently passed a resolution to offer 7.05 acres of land on a perpetual lease to Karnataka State Charities.

"The lease agreement between the TTD and the Karnataka State Charities will be signed shortly. Once the agreement is signed, the long-felt need of Karnataka pilgrims for good lodging facilities at affordable prices at Tirumala will become a reality," officials of the Religious Endowments Department pointed out.

The Karnataka government has also proposed to construct a commercial complex at Tirupati by demolishing an old structure. Another lodging facility will be developed at Thiruchanur (near Tirupati) at a cost of Rs 1.2 crore.