Amit Shah Highlights Temple Corridor Projects Under ‘Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi’ Vision

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday highlighted major temple corridor projects in Assam and Maharashtra, saying they embody the PM Modi’s government’s vision of ‘Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi’ (Development as well as Heritage).

Addressing an event in Kolhapur, Shah said the government is preserving India’s cultural and spiritual heritage while modernising infrastructure for pilgrims and tourists.

Shah pointed to the ₹498-crore Maa Kamakhya Divyalok Pariyojana in Guwahati as a key example of this approach.

The project aims to improve access and facilities for the millions of devotees who visit the revered Maa Kamakhya Temple on Nilachal Hills every year.

After a two-year delay due to legal hurdles, authorities resumed work on the redevelopment project.

The project will expand open spaces from 3,000 to nearly 100,000 square feet, enabling the complex to accommodate up to 10,000 pilgrims. It also includes wider access routes and the restoration of six smaller temples in the area.

Shah noted that experts revised the original project plan after conducting detailed geophysical and hydrological studies to minimise environmental impact.

Highlighting similar efforts across the country, Shah referred to the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, the redevelopment of Kedarnath and Badrinath Dham, and ongoing works at the Somnath Temple. He also spoke about the ₹1,500-crore Ambabai Mahalaxmi Temple Corridor project in Kolhapur.

The Maharashtra government is developing the project over 28,000 square metres while preserving 41 nearby temples with expert guidance.

Shah said the revamped complex will feature modern facilities, including AI-based security, heritage walkways, cultural galleries and pilgrim amenities. He added that the project will boost religious tourism, preserve cultural heritage and generate economic opportunities for the region.

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