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. Planned at a total cost of ₹1,632 crore, the ambitious corridor aims to transform one of India’s most revered Shakti Peeths into a world-class pilgrimage destination.
What the First Phase Includes
The Shakti Corridor will seamlessly connect the Main Temple, Gabbar and Mansarovar. The first phase focuses on critical infrastructure for pilgrims—multi-level parking facilities, an underpass road, Yatri Niwas, pedestrian pathways, Shaktipath, the corridor itself, and an amphitheatre designed for cultural and religious events.
A 25-Year Vision for Ambaji
Addressing the gathering, CM Bhupendra Patel said a comprehensive master plan has been prepared for Ambaji, keeping in mind the needs of the next 25 years. He underlined that the development of Adyashakti Dham Ambaji is being carried out under the inspiration and guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
‘Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi’ in Action
The Chief Minister linked the Shakti Corridor to the Prime Minister’s larger vision of “Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi”, citing landmark redevelopments at Somnath, Kashi Vishwanath, Mahakal Lok, Kedarnath and Baidyanath Dham, along with the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya and the flag hoisting at Pavagadh. Ambaji, one of the 51 Shakti Peeths, holds a central place in this cultural revival.
Growing Footfall, Expanding Facilities
CM Patel noted that over five lakh devotees participated in the most recent 51 Shakti Peeth Parikrama Mahotsav. Facilities like the Parikrama Path, Cultural Village and the light-and-sound show at Gabbar have already enhanced the pilgrim experience. He also highlighted the Ambaji–Taranga rail project, which is expected to boost connectivity and local economic activity.
Pilgrimage Development Across Gujarat
The Chief Minister said the Gujarat Pavitra Yatradham Vikas Board has completed development works worth crores at pilgrimage sites across the State, with many more projects in the pipeline. Ministers Pravin Mali, Dr. Jayram Gamit, Kamlesh Patel and Swaroopji Thakor echoed the government’s commitment to strengthening religious tourism while creating employment opportunities in Banaskantha district.
