In a significant prelude to one of India's largest tribal festivals, Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy is set to inaugurate major development works at the revered Sammakka Saralamma shrines in Medaram. The Chief Minister will visit the site on January 18, stay overnight, and formally inaugurate the projects valued at approximately ₹300 crore on January 19, before returning to Hyderabad and subsequently departing for Davos.
Grand Preparations for a Mega Festival
The development drive is in final stages for the Medaram Jatara, scheduled from January 28 to 31. Revenue Minister Ponguleti Srinivas Reddy, who is overseeing the project along with Panchayat Raj Minister Seethakka and Endowments Minister Konda Surekha, stated that nearly 95% of the works are complete. He emphasized that the state government is organizing the event on a scale comparable to the Kumbh Mela, with elaborate arrangements underway.
Key infrastructure upgrades include the laying of four-lane roads for nearly 10 kilometers around Medaram to manage the massive influx of devotees. The government has already acquired 29 acres of land for the project and has decided to acquire an additional 63 acres to create more facilities, ensuring a smoother and more comfortable experience for pilgrims.
Transforming Medaram into a Permanent Cultural Hub
Officials revealed that the vision extends beyond the festival. The temple complex is being developed as a permanent hub to showcase tribal culture and traditions. A key attraction will be the installation of Adivasi sculptures. Several beautification and construction projects are nearing completion:
- Landscaping within the temple premises.
- Construction of the main arch.
- Beautification of the Haritha Hotel junction.
- Levelling of the Jampanna Vagu bathing ghats.
Minister Ponguleti confirmed that, as per the directions of CM Revanth Reddy, all arrangements and development works are being closely monitored. He has invited ministers, MLAs, MLCs, and MPs from all political parties for the inauguration, in his capacity as the in-charge minister for the combined Warangal district.
Broader Development Push for Warangal Region
The focus on Medaram is part of a larger development plan for the region. During a review of works in the 12 assembly constituencies of combined Warangal district, it was highlighted that the Chief Minister has sanctioned a special grant of ₹4,000 crore for Warangal city. Priority within this grant is being given to drainage works in flood-affected core urban areas.
Furthermore, tenders for significant infrastructure projects worth about ₹570 crore and for the expansion of drinking water facilities will be invited shortly, signaling a sustained push for urban and rural development in the area.
The state government's concerted effort aims to not only facilitate a seamless Medaram Jatara but also to leave a lasting legacy of improved infrastructure and a dedicated space for celebrating the region's rich tribal heritage.
