Patna: The Bihar government has accelerated work on two major projects aimed at transforming Gaya Ji’s religious tourism infrastructure. With administrative approval of ₹3,516.05 crore, the Vishnupad Temple area development and Son-Phalgu river linking project are moving towards construction.
Consultants have already been appointed for both projects, while the tender process has also been completed. The construction work is expected to be handed over to the selected agency soon.
Vishnupad Corridor to Transform Temple Area
The ₹2,520 crore Vishnupad Temple development project is planned on the lines of the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor in Varanasi.
The project will focus on the overall development of the temple area and improved facilities for pilgrims and tourists. Planned components include:
- Development of the temple complex
- Multilevel car parking
- Elevated pathways and ramps
- Mansarwa-Manpur Bridge
- Development of ghats
- Dormitories and canteen facilities
- Pedestrian bridge
- Construction of statues
- PFC Sita Kund
- Public and internal facilities
The planned infrastructure is aimed at making movement and stay more convenient for visitors while giving the historic religious area a more organised tourism-oriented environment.
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Son-Phalgu River Linking to Improve Water Availability
Alongside the Vishnupad project, the ₹996.05 crore Son-Phalgu River Linking Project is planned for Gaya Ji and Bodh Gaya.
Under the project, water will be lifted from the Son River and transported through pipelines and canals to the Morhar River.
A 10 million cubic metre-capacity artificial reservoir will be constructed on the Morhar River to store the transferred water.
From the reservoir, water will be supplied as required through an approximately 22-km-long pipeline to the Phalgu River (Niranjana) upstream of Bodh Gaya.
The project will be implemented by the Water Resources Department.
Boost for Pilgrims During Pitru Paksha
Gaya attracts lakhs of pilgrims from India and abroad during Pitru Paksha for pinddaan and tarpan rituals.
The development of the Vishnupad Temple area, along with improved water availability in the Phalgu River, is expected to improve facilities and the overall experience for pilgrims visiting the city.
The projects also aim to strengthen Gaya’s potential as a destination for religious and spiritual tourism.
Modern Tourism Infrastructure With Heritage
The two projects seek to bring together Gaya’s ancient religious traditions and modern tourism infrastructure.
While the Vishnupad project focuses on the temple area and visitor facilities, the Son-Phalgu project addresses water availability linked to Gaya Ji and Bodh Gaya.
With consultants appointed and the tender process completed, the next major step is the handover of construction work to the agency.
Employment and Local Economic Activity
The projects are also expected to generate local employment and economic activity as construction and tourism-related infrastructure expands.
Improved facilities and a stronger tourism ecosystem could support businesses and services connected with pilgrims and visitors.
Together, the two projects mark a major step in the planned transformation of Gaya Ji, combining religious heritage with modern infrastructure and tourism facilities.
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