Minister Prem Kumar Spearheads Ambitious Transformations in Gaya and Bodh Gaya for Pilgrim and Tourist Facilities

Tejaswini

Gaya: The government is spearheading transformative initiatives in Gaya and Bodh Gaya to enhance facilities for the multitude of pilgrims and tourists visiting the sacred sites. Notable schemes include the development of a substantial dharamshala, a ropeway on Brahmayoni hills, and a state-of-the-art guest house in Bodh Gaya. On Monday, the State Cooperative Minister, Prem Kumar, personally conducted an on-site inspection and reviewed the progress of these projects, issuing directives to expedite the work by augmenting manpower.

The ongoing schemes hold particular significance in response to the Vishnupad Temple Management Committee’s appeal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the comprehensive development and beautification of the area surrounding the Vishnupad temple. Committee President Shambhu Lal Vitthal conveyed these requests to the Prime Minister approximately a week ago.

Minister Prem Kumar outlined the details of the initiatives during the inspection. A dharamshala, situated on a 4.38-acre plot within the infectious disease hospital’s land, is in progress. The dharamshala campus will include parking space for over 250 vehicles, both heavy and light. Additionally, an access road will be constructed to facilitate communication from the dharamshala to Vishnupad temple, with plans for leveling and widening existing roads. The tender for the dharamshala is in its final stages of approval.

On Brahmayoni hills, a 330-meter-long ropeway is under construction, with an estimated cost of Rs 867.6 lakh. This ropeway is designed to accommodate 150 people in each lot, and the construction of pillars is progressing rapidly.

In Bodh Gaya, a state-of-the-art guest house, equivalent to a four-star hotel, is in the final stages of construction. The 130-bed guest house includes a 30-bed dormitory, 10 single rooms, 80 double bedrooms, eight VIP suites, and two presidential suites. The building, spanning basement to G+6 storeys, features two restaurants, a conference hall with a 150-person capacity, an exhibition cum trade center, and various services as per requirements.

The first floor of the guest house boasts exclusive common facilities for guests, including a fitness center, an infinity swimming pool, and a restaurant with a pool view. The exhibition center and conference hall extend to a lush lawn, enhancing the overall experience for visitors to these sacred destinations.