₹2,643 crore plan for Godavari Pushkarams 2027 unveiled by Minister
Minister of Tourism and Culture Kandula Durgesh on Saturday said that infrastructure projects worth ₹2,643 crore have been proposed for the Godavari Pushkarams in 2027. The announcement was made during the 80th Independence Day celebrations at the Arts College campus in Rajamahendravaram.
The proposed projects include development of ghats along the banks of the Godavari River, tourist amenities, and other facilities. These works are aimed at ensuring a smooth and spiritually fulfilling experience for the large number of pilgrims expected to visit the region during the Pushkarams, a major Hindu festival held once every 12 years.
Mr. Durgesh also provided an update on the Akhanda Godavari project, stating that ₹94.44 crore has been released by the Ministry of Tourism for the ongoing works. Beautification of the Havelock bridge and Pushkar Ghat in Rajamahendravaram city is a key part of this project, he added.
Turning to tribal welfare, the Minister mentioned the bamboo processing unit set up at Devarapalli. Through the Aranya initiative, which involves bamboo collection and processing, at least 10,000 tribal people are guaranteed a livelihood, he said.
In a separate event, Minister of Labour V. Subhash hoisted the national flag at Amalapuram in Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Konaseema district. He announced that the cocoa crop would be extended to an additional 1,000 acres in the district, a move expected to boost the income of farmers.
At Rampachodavaram in Polavaram district, Collector K. Dinesh Kumar hoisted the national flag and informed the gathering that construction of 1,162 houses has been completed for families affected by the Polavaram irrigation project. He added that 150 families have been given permission for fishing in the Godavari River in the district.
The Godavari Pushkarams, which attract millions of devotees, are scheduled to take place in 2027. The state government has been emphasising infrastructure and amenity development in the Godavari region to cater to the influx of visitors. The proposed ₹2,643 crore investment is part of these preparations, though specific timelines and funding approvals are yet to be detailed.