In view of the growing number of pilgrims visiting Tirumala each day, the Board decided to examine the feasibility of constructing Vaikuntham Queue Complex-3. A committee of experts will be formed to assess this, taking into account future demands and the need to streamline the movement of devotees.

metro india news  I tirumala

The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) Trust Board, in a key meeting held at Annamayya Bhavan on Tuesday, took several major decisions focused on expanding the spiritual reach of Lord Venkateswara globally and improving amenities for devotees visiting Tirumala.

Acting on the directions of Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, the Board reviewed a report submitted by an expert panel on the possibility of constructing Sri Venkateswara temples in foreign countries. In response, the TTD resolved to constitute a sub-committee to study the panel's recommendations and chart a course for implementation. The move is seen as a step towards spreading the spiritual presence of Lord Venkateswara internationally and serving the global Telugu and Hindu diaspora.

In view of the growing number of pilgrims visiting Tirumala each day, the Board decided to examine the feasibility of constructing Vaikuntham Queue Complex-3. A committee of experts will be formed to assess this, taking into account future demands and the need to streamline the movement of devotees.

To enhance the convenience of pilgrims within Tirumala, the Board resolved to study the possibility of setting up rest lounges (lounge-type facilities) with full amenities at multiple locations. These centers would provide waiting and resting spaces for devotees in various parts of the temple town.

Improvement of facilities along the Alipiri and Srivari Mettu footpaths also received approval. The TTD will work on strengthening basic infrastructure, lighting, security, and overall spiritual atmosphere to offer a more comfortable and uplifting experience for pilgrims who choose the traditional walking route to reach Tirumala.

The Board further decided to prepare a Master Plan and Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the development of two significant spiritual landmarks — Shilathoranam and Chakrateertham — with an aim to enhance their accessibility and religious ambiance.

In the area of voluntary service, the Board gave its nod to recruit four Srivari Seva coordinators on a contractual basis. This is aimed at improving the administration and expansion of the Srivari Seva initiative, which sees thousands of devotees participating in service activities each year.

The Board also approved the establishment of a Cyber Security Lab to protect devotees from online fraud and cybercrime, especially in view of increasing digital transactions and bookings through TTD's platforms. For the Kalyanakatta, where devotees offer their hair as a vow to the deity, the Board proposed improved infrastructure, better sanitation, and enhanced safety. It directed that experts be consulted and an action plan be prepared accordingly.

To streamline the temple’s administration, approval was given for the construction of a new administrative building in Tirumala. In the same context, the Board approved the demolition of certain old structures including six blocks of the old HVD complex, Balaji Rest House, Ampro Guest House, Annapurna Canteen, and Kalyani Satrams, based on recommendations from IIT experts.

Further, the TTD resolved to undertake development works in Tallapaka, the birthplace of saint-poet Annamacharya. A detailed action plan will be prepared in consultation with experts to preserve and promote the cultural legacy of the site.

In support of 320 newly built temples under the Samarasata Seva Foundation, the Board approved the distribution of microphone sets worth Rs 79.82 lakh free of cost. Each set costs Rs 25,000. The TTD also sanctioned Rs 2.16 crore to support unemployed Veda Parayanadars by providing them with allowances through the state’s Endowments Department, as part of its initiative for Vedic preservation.

Under the Sri Vani Trust, the Board revised the financial assistance model for temple and bhajan mandir construction in SC, ST, and backward regions. The new system offers support in three categories: Rs 10 lakh, Rs 15 lakh, and Rs 20 lakh, replacing the earlier flat Rs 10 lakh provision. Lastly, the Board resolved to send a proposal to the state government seeking regularisation of 142 contract drivers working in the TTD, in line with a recent High Court judgment. The meeting was attended by Additional EO C.H. Venkayya Chowdhary, JEO Veerabrahmam, and several TTD board members.