Gujarat CM lays foundation stone for first phase of Shakti Corridor

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Saturday laid the foundation stone for development works worth ₹950 crore under the first phase of the Shakti Corridor at Adyashakti Dham Ambaji, a project planned at a total cost of ₹1,632 crore.

The Shakti Corridor will connect the Main Temple, Gabbar and Mansarovar. The first phase includes construction of multi-level parking facilities, an underpass road, Yatri Niwas, pathways, Shaktipath, the Shakti Corridor and an amphitheatre.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said a master plan for Ambaji has been prepared keeping in view requirements for the next 25 years. He said the development of Adyashakti Dham Ambaji is being carried out inspired and guided by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Chief Minister said the Prime Minister has focused on the development of pilgrimage sites across the country under the approach of “Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi,” beginning with the Somnath Swabhiman Parv. He referred to projects undertaken at Kashi Vishwanath, Mahakal Lok, Kedarnath and Baidyanath Dham, as well as the construction of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya and the hoisting of the flag at Pavagadh.

He said Ambaji holds a place among the 51 Shakti Peeths and that the Prime Minister’s vision for its development is being implemented. He noted that the 51 Shakti Peeth Parikrama Mahotsav is held every year and that more than five lakh devotees participated in the most recent event.

Mr. Patel said facilities such as the Parikrama Path, Cultural Village and the light-and-sound show at Gabbar have been introduced as part of the development works. He added that the Ambaji–Taranga rail project will improve connectivity and support local economic activity.

He further said the Gujarat Pavitra Yatradham Vikas Board has completed development works worth crores at pilgrimage sites across the State and that additional projects are planned.

Cabinet Ministers Pravin Mali, Dr. Jayram Gamit, Kamlesh Patel and Swaroopji Thakor, along with MLAs from Banaskantha district, attended the foundation stone-laying ceremony.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Mali said the State government is continuing the work initiated by the Prime Minister for the development of pilgrimage sites and remains committed to the development Ambaji Dham.

Minister Gamit said lakhs of devotees visit Ambaji during the Bhadarvi Poonam Maha Mela each year. He said the ₹1,632-crore corridor project aims to improve facilities for pilgrims and create employment opportunities in Banaskantha district.

Tourism Secretary Kuldeep Arya, Member Secretary of the Yatradham Board Ramesh Merja, District Collector Mihir Patel, District Development Officer M.J. Dave, the Sarpanch of Ambaji, officials and members of the public were present at the event.