Kaushambi: The Kaushambi district administration has proposed a Maa Sheetla Corridor at Kada Dham, with an estimated cost of more than ₹300 crore, aimed at developing the religious site and improving facilities for pilgrims.
The proposal has been sent to the Uttar Pradesh government for the appointment of an architect. According to Kaushambi District Magistrate Amit Pal, once the appointment is approved, an architect will be selected, followed by the appointment of an executing agency and preparation of a Detailed Project Report (DPR).
Corridor Planned on Maa Vindhyavasini Model
The proposed development is being planned along the lines of the Maa Vindhyavasini Corridor. The administration’s plan covers infrastructure and visitor facilities around Maa Sheetla Dham at Kada Dham, located on the banks of the Ganga.
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Key components proposed under the corridor include:
- Beautification and development of Ganga ghats
- A floating jetty
- Accommodation facilities for pilgrims
- Cafeteria and parking facilities
- Improved roads and approach connectivity
- Drinking water and sewerage infrastructure
- A wide approach road connecting the main road with the temple complex
- A grand entrance gate
- A circumambulation path
- A pilgrim facilitation centre
- Changing rooms and modern toilets
Kada Dham’s Religious Significance
Maa Sheetla Dham is a prominent pilgrimage site in Kaushambi and is located near the Ganga. The district administration identifies Kada Dham as an important religious destination, while the temple is also associated with the Shakti Peeth tradition.
The site attracts devotees during major religious occasions. The Kubri and Kaleshwar ghats are among the prominent bathing points used by pilgrims visiting the area. Earlier reports have documented large gatherings of devotees at Kada Dham during religious festivals.
Permanent Ghat Also Proposed Between Two Existing Ghats
The administration is separately working on a proposal for a permanent ghat between Kubri and Kaleshwar ghats.
The two existing ghats are located around 400-500 metres apart, with a permanent structure already developed at Kubri Ghat, according to the information provided by district officials.
Proposal Still at Initial Stage
The Maa Sheetla Corridor proposal is currently at the planning stage. The immediate step is approval for appointing an architect.
The subsequent process will involve:
- Appointment of the architect.
- Selection of an executing agency.
- Preparation of the DPR.
- Further approvals and implementation decisions.
The project cost and final scope will therefore be subject to the detailed planning and approval process.
Part of Wider Religious Tourism Development in Region
The proposed corridor comes amid wider development of religious and heritage sites in the Prayagraj region. Several temple corridors have been developed or taken up around Prayagraj in connection with infrastructure and visitor facilities associated with the Mahakumbh period.
Kada Dham itself has long been an important pilgrimage destination in Kaushambi. The district’s official website also lists Kada Dham among its public utilities.
The proposed Maa Sheetla Corridor would add another major planned development to the region’s religious tourism infrastructure if it receives the necessary approvals.
