Banaskantha, Feb 7 (NationPress) On Saturday, Gujarat's Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel inaugurated the foundation for development projects totaling ₹950 crore as part of the first phase of the Shakti Corridor at Adyashakti Dham Ambaji. This significant initiative is designed to enhance pilgrim infrastructure and improve connectivity at the esteemed Shakti Peeth.

The overall cost for the Shakti Corridor project is projected to be ₹1,632 crore, aiming to link the principal Ambaji temple with Gabbar Hill and Mansarovar.

Officials have outlined a comprehensive and forward-thinking master plan to meet the needs of pilgrims and tourists for the next 25 years.

The initial phase includes features such as a multi-level parking facility, an underpass road, Yatri Niwas, pedestrian pathways, Divya Darshan Chowk, Shaktipath, an amphitheatre, and provisions for a light-and-sound show.

During the ceremony, CM Patel remarked, "With inspiration from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the comprehensive and future-oriented development of Adyashakti Dham Ambaji is in progress."

He highlighted that the master plan considers upcoming requirements, stating, "A visionary master plan for Ambaji has been devised, focusing on the needs of the next 25 years."

CM Patel noted the Prime Minister's holistic approach to heritage-related development, referencing the 'Somnath Swabhiman Parv' and the renovation of pilgrimage sites nationwide, emphasizing the mantra of 'Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi'.

He acknowledged the renewed development of numerous sacred sites under this initiative.

The Chief Minister emphasized that Ambaji Temple holds a unique position among the 51 Shakti Peeths, attracting a large number of devotees annually.

He mentioned that the yearly Shakti Peeth Parikrama Mahotsav allows millions of devotees to participate in darshan, with over five lakh devotees attending the latest event.

Initiatives like the Parikrama Path, Cultural Village, and the nation's largest light-and-sound show at Gabbar are part of efforts to merge pilgrimage development with tourism.

Furthermore, CM Patel stated that the proposed Ambaji–Taranga rail project would greatly enhance regional connectivity.

"This railway initiative will improve connectivity and provide a significant boost to local economic growth," he added.

Several Gujarat Ministers, including Pravin Mali, Jayram Gamit, Kamlesh Patel, and Swaroopji Thakor, along with legislators from Banaskantha district and other dignitaries, were present at the foundation-laying event.

Minister Mali affirmed the state government's commitment to the all-encompassing development of Ambaji Dham, while Minister Gamit stated that the corridor project would offer enhanced facilities for devotees and generate local employment.

During his visit, CM Patel also prayed at the Ambaji temple, seeking peace, prosperity, and well-being for the state.