Durga temple authorities revive proposal for second ghat road

Vijayawada: A long-pending demand for the construction of a second ghat road to the famed Kanaka Durga Temple atop Indrakeeladri Hill appears to be finally gaining traction, with temple authorities and the trust board reportedly initiating efforts to turn the decades-old proposal into reality.The move comes at a time when the number of devotees visiting the shrine continues to grow steadily, putting immense pressure on the existing ghat road, which serves as the primary route to the hilltop temple. Officials believe that a second access road has become essential to improve traffic flow, enhance pilgrim convenience and strengthen safety measures during peak seasons.The development assumes significance as authorities recently proposed repairs to the existing ghat road at an estimated cost of ₹46 lakh through the roads and buildings (R&B) department. While repair works are being planned, the temple trust board has reportedly concluded that long-term solutions are necessary, bringing the second ghat road proposal back into focus.As part of an ambitious master plan for the temple's future development, the trust board led by chairman Borra Radhakrishna and executive officer VK Seena Nayak was exploring ways to improve infrastructure and pilgrim amenities. Officials, in coordination with the R&B department, are reportedly preparing plans for the proposed second ghat road.However, engineers caution that the project will not be easy. The presence of numerous residential structures on Indrakeeladri Hill, coupled with its mixed soil-and-rock terrain, presents significant engineering challenges.Meanwhile, the temple is also addressing another long-standing concern — the lack of accommodation facilities for devotees. Despite receiving thousands of pilgrims every day, the shrine currently offers no dedicated lodging facilities, forcing visitors to rely on private hotels and lodges.To address this issue, the trust board has recently approved the construction of permanent rest houses and dormitory-style facilities in Arjuna Street at the foot of the hill. Authorities are also planning to soon inaugurate newly constructed prasadam distribution and Annaprasadam preparation centres, further enhancing facilities for devotees.