TTD Additional EO Ch Venkaiah Chowdary inspecting a newly introduced footwear management facility at the free meal complex at Tirumala on Tuesday.
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has introduced a QR code–based, state-of-the-art footwear management system, promising lasting relief to one of the most persistent inconveniences faced by pilgrims.
TTD Additional Executive Officer Ch. Venkaiah Chowdary on Tuesday inaugurated the newly installed QR-enabled footwear counter at the Tarigonda Vengamamba Anna Prasadam Complex.
Addressing the media, Mr. Chowdary said the initiative offers a permanent solution to the chaotic handling of footwear at the hill shrine.
Modelled on airport-style luggage counters, the system was first introduced as a pilot project at Vaikuntham Queue Complex-2. Its success prompted the TTD to expand the facility, with eight such counters now operational in Tirumala.
As part of the new arrangement, devotees depositing their footwear receive a QR-coded slip containing comprehensive details such as the number of pairs, size, rack number, box number and exact storage location.
Scanning the slip instantly displays the precise location, enabling staff to retrieve the footwear swiftly and accurately.
The impact has been transformative, with nearly 99% of devotees now reclaiming their footwear, in sharp contrast to earlier times when unorganised heaps led to 70% to 80% being abandoned.
The project is being fully implemented by Coromandel International Limited as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative.
Describing it as one of the ‘exceptional examples’ of modern temple administration in the country, Mr. Chowdary urged devotees to use the designated counters, noting that it would further contribute to cleanliness and fast disposal.
Coromandel International Limited senior vice-president K. Satyanarayana and TTD officials were present.
Published – January 13, 2026 11:04 pm IST
