₹250-crore master plan ready for Dattatreya temple in Ganagapur

A view of the Sri Dattatreya temple at Deval Ganagapur in Afzalpur taluk of Kalaburagi district.

A comprehensive master plan, estimated at ₹250 crore, has been drawn up to develop and beautify the Sri Dattatreya temple at Deval Ganagapur in Afzalpur taluk of Kalaburagi district, a major pilgrimage centre in the Kalyana Karnataka region.

The first phase, estimated at ₹50 crore, will focus on improving pilgrim amenities, developing the riverfront and streamlining traffic and parking.

The Detailed Project Report (DPR) and designs have been prepared under the leadership of Home Minister and district in-charge Priyank Kharge.

The proposal is awaiting approval from the State Cabinet.

The Sangam Ghat at Deval Ganagapur is set to get a facelift at a cost of ₹17.12 crore under the master plan.

The first phase comprises six major components, including the development of Sangam Ghat at a cost of ₹17.12 crore, Papavinash Teertha at ₹12.50 crore, a promenade leading to the temple at ₹6.50 crore, parking and transit facilities at ₹9.10 crore, a pedestrian pathway connecting the bus stand to the temple at a cost of ₹52 lakh and improvements to the temple complex at a cost of ₹4.25 crore.

The development of Sangam Ghat will include designated pick-up and drop-off points, parking space for 70 cars, 40 commercial shops, a landscaped garden, an information centre and public toilets.

At Papavinash Teertha, the proposal envisages a floating bathing platform, changing rooms, a garden, public toilets and 95 metres of steps to facilitate pilgrims taking a holy dip in the river.

A 160-metre promenade connecting the main road to the temple entrance will have 30 shops, an information centre, public toilets and a shuttle service. Underground power supply, digital facilities and decorative lighting are also proposed.

A major parking and transit complex is proposed on Chowdapur Road, about 1.9 km from the temple. Of the 10 acres identified, eight acres will be developed for parking 800 cars and 500 two-wheelers. The facility will also have an information centre, toilets and landscaped spaces.

A 1.8-metre-wide pedestrian pathway will connect the bus stand to the temple, with seating arrangements, greenery and designated vending kiosks.

The temple complex will be upgraded with entry and exit routes for devotees visiting the sanctum sanctorum, a dedicated VIP entrance, halls for special pujas and accessible pathways for persons with disabilities.

Mr. Kharge said that the government is committed to ensuring the comprehensive development of the temple and will provide the necessary financial support.

“Works worth ₹50 crore have been planned in the first phase. The DPR has been prepared and steps are being taken to secure the State Cabinet’s approval. We are giving priority to development across all sectors in Kalaburagi district,” he said.

Thousands of devotees from Karnataka and neighbouring States visit Ganagapur every day. The proposed development is expected to improve the pilgrimage experience, Mr. Kharge added.

Deputy Commissioner Ikram Sharief said that the master plan has been prepared. “We expect the State government to give approval to the proposal shortly. Once implemented, the project will significantly improve infrastructure and provide greater convenience to devotees visiting the Sri Dattatreya temple,” he said.