Sat Feb 07 19:40:36 UTC 2026: ### Gujarat Invests Heavily in Pilgrimage Tourism with Shakti Corridor Project

The Story:
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel laid the foundation stone on Saturday, February 7, 2026, for development works worth ₹950 crore under the first phase of the Shakti Corridor project at Adyashakti Dham Ambaji. The ambitious project, planned at a total cost of ₹1,632 crore, aims to connect the Main Temple, Gabbar, and Mansarovar, enhancing facilities for pilgrims and boosting local economic activity. The first phase includes multi-level parking, an underpass road, Yatri Niwas, pathways, Shaktipath, the Shakti Corridor, and an amphitheater.

The project is part of a broader initiative inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi‘s focus on developing pilgrimage sites across India, following the approach of “Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi” (Development and Heritage). The Chief Minister highlighted similar projects at Kashi Vishwanath, Mahakal Lok, Kedarnath, and Baidyanath Dham, as well as the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, emphasizing Ambaji’s significance as one of the 51 Shakti Peeths.

Key Points:

  • Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel initiated the first phase of the ₹1,632 crore Shakti Corridor project in Ambaji on February 7, 2026.
  • The first phase involves development works worth ₹950 crore, including parking, an underpass, accommodation, and pathways.
  • The project aims to improve facilities for pilgrims visiting Adyashakti Dham Ambaji.
  • The initiative is inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s focus on developing pilgrimage sites nationwide.
  • The Ambaji-Taranga rail project will improve connectivity and support local economic activity.
  • The State government aims to provide employment opportunities in Banaskantha district

Critical Analysis:

The investment in Ambaji’s development comes at a time when Gujarat is seeing development in many areas. This indicates a sustained, multi-pronged approach to development.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Gujarat government is significantly investing in religious tourism infrastructure.
  • The “Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi” approach highlights a dual focus on development and heritage preservation.
  • Improved connectivity and facilities are expected to boost pilgrimage and tourism in the region.
  • The project aligns with a national trend of developing pilgrimage sites, potentially for both religious and economic benefits.
  • The investment in Ambaji’s development happens in the context of news highlighting various aspects of Gujarat like environmental preservation and local education, suggesting a broad approach to regional development.

Impact Analysis:

The Shakti Corridor project has the potential for several significant impacts:

  • Economic Growth: Increased tourism will likely stimulate local businesses and create employment opportunities in the Banaskantha district. The Ambaji-Taranga rail project will further enhance economic activity.
  • Infrastructure Development: The project will lead to substantial improvements in infrastructure, benefiting both pilgrims and local residents.
  • Tourism Boost: Enhanced facilities and connectivity will attract more devotees to Ambaji, increasing its prominence as a religious destination.
  • National Image: The development of Ambaji as a key Shakti Peeth contributes to the larger national narrative of promoting India’s cultural and religious heritage.
  • Regional Development: Projects will inspire and be emulated by nearby religious locations.

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