Gaya: As work gathers pace on the ambitious Rs352 crore Vishnupad Corridor project, at least 90 structures—mostly residential—have been identified for full or partial demolition to widen and beautify the approach road to the Vishnupad Temple. The project aims to double the road width from the existing 12 metres to 24 metres, enhance pilgrim amenities and transform the temple area into a visitor-friendly spiritual and cultural corridor.Municipal Commissioner Abhishek Palasia said a survey is currently under way and 90 structures have so far been identified for demolition. Asked about the final number of structures likely to be razed, Palasia said it was too early to make an estimate. He stressed that demolitions would be carried out only when necessary and that decisions would be taken judiciously to facilitate the project. “The affected persons need not worry as there is provision for adequate compensation for acquiring private land or demolishing existing structures,” he said.Besides widening the approach road and removing the existing boundary to align it with the overall plan, the corridor project also include the development of ghats at an estimated cost of Rs65 crore. Redevelopment of Tulsi Park at a cost of Rs12 crore, construction of a suspension bridge linking Sita Kund, development of a Lord Vishnu Cultural Centre, and beautification of five ponds are also proposed. The suspension bridge, cultural centre and pond beautification works are estimated to cost Rs71 crore, Rs81 crore and Rs108 crore, respectively.The fate of the ‘non-Hindu door’ in the corridor plan is also being closely watched. Entry of non-Hindus into the Vishnupad Temple is banned. During a viceroy’s visit in 1911, a special non-Hindu door was created to allow entry up to a point away from the sanctum. Over time, the door became defunct and was encroached upon by local shopkeepers.According to Shambhu Lal Bitthal, president of the Vishnupad Temple Managing Committee, the temple management has no objection to the relocation of around a dozen small temples, provided it is done following the established ‘Pran Pratishtha’ protocol. Bitthal added that the non-Hindu door may also have to be relocated in line with the revised temple boundary. On reports that a gurdwara may be affected, Bitthal said the decision rests with the Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee.
