AP begins early preparations for Pushkaralu

Metro India News | AMARAVATI

The Andhra Pradesh government has launched an extensive, year-ahead action plan to ensure that the Godavari Pushkaralu-2027 is conducted as one of the country’s largest and best-organized spiritual gatherings. Acting on the directions of Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, Municipal Administration Minister P. Narayana and Tourism Minister Kandula Durgesh reviewed preparations and infrastructure works in Rajamahendravaram on Saturday.

The ministers inspected Kotilingala Ghat, Pushkar Ghats, the Godavari riverfront, East Railway Station Road, and civic infrastructure projects before holding detailed review meetings with officials and public representatives. They stressed coordinated efforts among the Irrigation, Municipal Administration, Roads & Buildings, Tourism, Endowments, Home and Panchayat Raj departments to ensure seamless arrangements for devotees. 

According to the government, the 2027 Godavari Pushkaralu, scheduled from June 26 to July 7, is expected to witness an unprecedented influx of pilgrims. While nearly four crore devotees attended the previous Pushkaralu, with 68 lakh pilgrims on a single day, the government estimates that around 10 crore devotees could visit during the upcoming 12-day festival. To support the event, the state has allocated Rs 585 crore for infrastructure development in Rajamahendravaram, covering roads, drainage, sewerage, drinking water supply and sanitation. 

Additional investments include Rs 100 crore through the Pollution Control Board, Rs 100 crore for the Akhanda Godavari tourism project, Rs 50 crore for electrical works, Rs 22 crore for riverfront development, Rs 95 crore under the AMRUT 2.0 scheme and Rs 14 crore through the Khelo India program. Tourism Minister Kandula Durgesh said the government plans to develop the Godavari region as a major spiritual and tourism destination under the Akhanda Godavari Project. Home stays, tent cities and expanded tourism facilities will be created to accommodate pilgrims, while development works will extend across six Pushkar districts.

Minister Narayana emphasized that all works should create permanent civic assets rather than temporary facilities, ensuring long-term benefits for Rajamahendravaram and surrounding regions. Officials were directed to expedite project execution, improve coordination among departments and complete all infrastructure works well before the festival to deliver a safe, seamless and memorable experience for millions of devotees.