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Priests, traders, locals intensify stir against Vishnupad Temple Corridor
Local priests, saints, businessmen, and residents protest against the Vishnupad Temple Corridor Project in Gaya, alleging harm to heritage and potential demolition of structures. The project, approved in the Union Budget 2024 and modeled on the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, involves a 108-foot Vishnu statue and enhanced riverfronts. Bihar Tourism has approved construction and authorities say public feedback will be sought as part of the process.
Why It Matters
The protests highlight tensions between heritage protection and infrastructure development at a sacred site, underscoring the need for inclusive public consultation in such projects.
Timeline
6 Events
Protesters accuse project of destruction
May 12, 2026
Gayapals (pilgrimage priests), saints associated with maths and temples, businessmen and locals protested under the banner of Shri Vishnupad Kshetriya Jagaran Manch, voicing strong opposition and demanding withdrawal of the corridor project.
Religious leaders urge preservation of sacred character
May 12, 2026
Swami Venkatesh Prapannacharya, head priest of the Ramanuja Math, urged that Vishnupad should remain a religious site and must not be turned into a mere tourist destination, warning that tampering with traditions would hurt millions of Sanatan devotees.
District Magistrate response on public grievances
May 12, 2026
DM Shashank Subhankar said the blueprint would be finalised only after due consideration of people’s grievances; no survey or demarcation work would be undertaken without consolidating the public suggestions; citizens may present views before the Municipal Corporation and the Sadar Sub-Divisional Officer.
Memorandum submitted to Gaya DM opposing corridor
May 12, 2026
Representatives of Shri Vishnupad Kshetriya Jagaran Manch and the Vishnupad Prabandhkarini Samiti submitted a memorandum to Gaya district magistrate Shashank Subhankar, voicing strong opposition to the project and demanding its withdrawal.
Bihar Tourism approval and preparations begin
May 12, 2026
Bihar Tourism approved the construction of the Vishnupad Temple Corridor site and the local municipal corporation reportedly began preparations, amid fears that age-old structures could be demolished.
Budget approval for Vishnupad Temple Corridor project
2024
The Vishnupad Temple Corridor Project received approval in the Union Budget 2024 and is envisioned to be modeled on the Kashi Vishwanath Temple Corridor at an estimated cost of ₹2,390 crore. It aims to develop the site into a world-class tourist destination with features including a 108-foot Lord Vishnu statue and enhanced riverfronts.