Srisailam shrine to get facelift

Amaravati: Srisailam, the abode of deity Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy, located atop the Nallamala Hills, is poised to go for a facelift, thanks to the centrally-aided scheme Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spirituality Augmentation Drive (PRASAD).

According to information, Srisailam is one of the 13 shrines chosen under the scheme for development across the country. It is proposed to fund for the integrated development of the temple under the PRASAD. The Union Tourism Ministry reportedly decided to release Rs 50 crore from the scheme.

The objectives of the Prasad scheme included integrated development of pilgrimage destinations in order to promote religious tourism, local arts, culture, handicrafts, cuisine, etc. The measure intends to improve the livelihoods of the locals.

According to AP tourism and culture department secretary Mukesh Kumar Meena, a detailed project report was submitted to the union ministry including proposed graphic designs for the development of Srisailam temple and infrastructure facilities at the hill shrine.

For the facelift of the main temple Rs 16.50 crore is needed. Development works on the dome (Shikhara) is estimated to cost Rs 4.28 crore. The extension of ropeway is proposed with an investment of Rs 1.31 crore. For improvement of roads and central lighting system a sum of Rs 13.61 crore is proposed to be incurred.

The temple will also showcase sound and light show, modern amphitheatre, tourist facilitation centre, additional parking places near bus stand. Besides, an outer ring road is planned with an estimated cost of Rs 2 crore.

“Our aim is to provide amenities to the pilgrims visiting the hill shrine”, Meena said. Soon the works will be commenced and the tourists will have a rich experience after visiting the shrine, he told The Hans India.

By: T Sudhakar