Gujarat CM lays foundation stone for first phase of Shakti Corridor

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Saturday laid the foundation stone for development works worth ₹950 crore under the first phase of the Shakti Corridor at Adyashakti Dham Ambaji, a major pilgrimage infrastructure project planned at a total cost of ₹1,632 crore.The Shakti Corridor is envisioned to improve connectivity and facilities across key religious sites at Ambaji, linking the Main Temple, Gabbar and Mansarovar. The first phase of the project includes the construction of multi-level parking facilities, an underpass road, Yatri Niwas, pedestrian pathways, the Shaktipath, the Shakti Corridor itself, and an amphitheatre to support cultural and religious programmes.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Patel said a comprehensive master plan for Ambaji has been prepared, keeping in view the requirements of the next 25 years. He said the development of Adyashakti Dham Ambaji is being carried out under the inspiration and guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.The Chief Minister referred to the Prime Minister’s focus on the development of pilgrimage destinations across the country under the vision of “Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi,” which began with the Somnath Swabhiman Parv. He cited major projects such as Kashi Vishwanath Dham, Mahakal Lok in Ujjain, Kedarnath and Baidyanath Dham, along with the construction of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya and the hoisting of the flag at Pavagadh.Patel noted that Ambaji holds a significant place among the 51 Shakti Peeths and said the Prime Minister’s vision for the site is now being implemented on the ground. He pointed out that the 51 Shakti Peeth Parikrama Mahotsav is organised annually, with more than five lakh devotees participating in the most recent edition.
Highlighting ongoing development initiatives, the Chief Minister said facilities such as the Parikrama Path, a Cultural Village, and a light-and-sound show at Gabbar have already been introduced. He added that the Ambaji–Taranga rail project will further improve connectivity to the region and help boost local economic activity.
Patel also said that the Gujarat Pavitra Yatradham Vikas Board has completed development works worth several crores at pilgrimage sites across the State, with additional projects planned in the coming years.Cabinet Ministers Pravin Mali, Dr. Jayram Gamit, Kamlesh Patel and Swaroopji Thakor, along with MLAs from Banaskantha district, were present at the foundation stone-laying ceremony.
Speaking on the occasion, Minister Pravin Mali said the State government is continuing the work initiated by the Prime Minister to upgrade pilgrimage infrastructure and remains committed to the overall development of Ambaji Dham. Minister Jayram Gamit said lakhs of devotees visit Ambaji during the annual Bhadarvi Poonam Maha Mela, and the ₹1,632-crore corridor project will significantly improve pilgrim amenities while generating employment opportunities in Banaskantha district.Tourism Secretary Kuldeep Arya, Member Secretary of the Gujarat Pavitra Yatradham Vikas Board Ramesh Merja, District Collector Mihir Patel, District Development Officer M.J. Dave, the Sarpanch of Ambaji, senior officials, and members of the public also attended the event.

(State Correspondent)