The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) has announced new restrictions on the movement of two-wheelers on the Ghat roads leading to the Tirumala temple. Effective from Monday, August 12, and continuing until September 30, two-wheelers will only be allowed on the roads from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. These restrictions have been implemented to ensure the safety of devotees and to prevent human-wildlife conflicts.
The Deputy Conservator of Forests at TTD highlighted that August and September mark the peak breeding season for wild animals. During this time, wild animals are frequently seen crossing the First Ghat Road, posing potential risks to both humans and wildlife. In response, TTD has decided to restrict the movement of two-wheelers during night hours on both the First and Second Ghat roads.
The temple authorities urge devotees to take note of these changes and cooperate fully to ensure their safety and the well-being of the region’s wildlife.
This isn’t the first time such restrictions have been imposed. Last year, TTD limited two-wheeler access to the Ghat roads and the Alipiri footpath after several sightings of leopards in the area. The restrictions were enforced from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m., and six wild cats were captured by the state forest department during that period.
Sri Venkateshwara Swamy temple, also known as the Balaji temple, is one of the most revered and wealthiest Hindu temples in the world. It attracts thousands of devotees daily. On August 11, more than 86,000 pilgrims visited the temple, with 31,536 devotees participating in the tonsure ritual. The temple’s Hundi collection that day amounted to Rs. 3.89 crore.
TTD’s latest measures reflect its commitment to ensuring the safety of both its devotees and the local wildlife, encouraging responsible and mindful pilgrimage practices.
