Andhra Pradesh CM N Chandrababu Naidu Initiates Early Planning for 2027 Godavari Pushkarams
In a significant move, Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has directed state officials to commence immediate preparations for the upcoming Godavari Pushkarams, scheduled to take place from June 26 to July 7, 2027. The state government anticipates an unprecedented turnout of approximately 10 crore devotees from across India and around the world who are expected to participate in the sacred ritual of taking a holy dip in the River Godavari.
Urgent Review Meeting Sets the Stage for Massive Preparations
During a comprehensive review meeting held on Friday with officials from multiple departments, CM Naidu emphasized the urgency of beginning work without delay, noting that only 18 months remain before the grand event. The chief minister issued clear instructions to ensure that devotees encounter no difficulties along the extensive 212-kilometer stretch of the river flowing through Polavaram, Eluru, East Godavari, West Godavari, Konaseema, and Kakinada districts.
Officials presented detailed plans for developing 373 ghats (riverfront steps), including 139 new constructions, covering nearly 10 kilometers of the riverbank. A model ghat will be established first in Rajamahendravaram, with all other ghats following the same architectural design to maintain consistency and quality.
Comprehensive Infrastructure and Technological Initiatives
Through a video conference with collectors and Superintendents of Police from the six districts, CM Naidu outlined a vision for developing the Akhanda Godavari region by promoting tourist destinations and historical sites. He specifically addressed practical concerns, asking officials to resolve mobile signal issues in agency regions such as Polavaram to ensure connectivity during the event.
The chief minister highlighted the importance of community participation in hosting devotees arriving from distant locations, suggesting that local involvement would enhance the overall experience. He also proposed deploying advanced AI-based crowd management systems, similar to those used successfully during the Maha Kumbh Mela, to regulate the massive influx of pilgrims efficiently.
Multi-Faceted Approach to Logistics and Safety
To cater to the linguistic diversity of attendees, the Bhashini app will be utilized to provide language support, ensuring that devotees from different regions can navigate and participate comfortably. The administration will focus extensively on sanitation measures and operate special bus services to facilitate transportation.
CM Naidu has instructed officials to consult with the central government for arranging additional trains and flights to accommodate the surge in travelers. All ghats, nearby temples, open spaces, and facilities will be meticulously mapped, and extensive publicity campaigns will be launched to promote the event globally.
Detailed Action Plan and District-Wise Ghat Development
A comprehensive action plan will be formulated to prevent accidents and ensure safety throughout the festival. The preparations include:
- Establishing tent cities and homestays to accommodate the massive influx of devotees.
- Implementing AI-driven crowd management systems to regulate rush and maintain order.
- Utilizing RTGS (Real-Time Gross Settlement) services for effective monitoring and coordination.
- Enforcing strict safety measures across all venues.
- Upgrading roads leading to the Pushkar districts to improve accessibility.
- Aiming to complete the Polavaram irrigation project before the Pushkarams commence.
The district-wise distribution of ghats has been finalized as follows:
- Polavaram: 14 ghats
- Eluru: 34 ghats
- East Godavari: 102 ghats
- West Godavari: 40 ghats
- Kakinada: 6 ghats
- BR Ambedkar Konaseema: 175 ghats
This meticulous planning underscores the Andhra Pradesh government's commitment to hosting a seamless, safe, and spiritually enriching Godavari Pushkarams in 2027, leveraging both traditional community engagement and modern technological solutions.
