‘Pandharpur of Vidarbha’ Set for Rs206 Crore Redevelopment Boost

Dhapewada Temple Redevelopment: The historic Lord Vitthal and Goddess Rukmini Temple in Dhapewada, Kalmeshwar tehsil, is undergoing a massive ₹206 crore redevelopment. This initiative aims to enhance the temple’s sanctity, infrastructure, and surroundings, transforming it into a major pilgrimage and tourist attraction in central India. The bhoomipujan ceremony is set to take place, graced by prominent dignitaries including Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.

Historical Significance of Dhapewada Temple

A Sacred Discovery

The self-manifested idol of Lord Vitthal was discovered in a well and consecrated in 1741. Since then, the temple has become a revered religious site, drawing thousands of devotees daily.

The ‘Pandharpur of Vidarbha’

Due to its immense spiritual significance, the temple is often referred to as the ‘Pandharpur of Vidarbha’. It attracts nearly 1,000–1,500 devotees daily, with numbers swelling to 4–5 lakh during the Ashadhi and Kartiki Ekadashi festivals.

Why the Redevelopment is Needed

Currently, inadequate infrastructure and outdated facilities pose challenges for visitors. The Public Works Department (PWD) has allocated ₹165 crore for temple redevelopment, with an additional ₹40 crore for environmental projects.

Key Features of the ₹206 Crore Redevelopment Project

Temple Infrastructure Enhancements

• New administrative building with a VIP lounge, prasad counter, staff quarters, and visitor amenities.
• Revamp of Shri Kolba Swami Temple, a significant part of Dhapewada’s spiritual landscape.
• Asthi Visarjan facility with an immersion pond, mundan shed, and worship areas.

Bridging Accessibility Gaps

• A new bridge over the Chandrabhaga River, improving connectivity between the parking area and the temple.
• Two large bridges designed specifically for the temple’s grand chariot procession, ensuring a safer route for devotees.

Environmental Sustainability Initiatives

• Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) with sequencing batch reactor (SBR) technology to prevent pollution of the Chandrabhaga River.
• Strengthening the riverbank with a protective wall and well-developed ghats.
• Widening and deepening the Chandrabhaga River to prevent flooding and improve water flow.

Improved Visitor Amenities

• Ample parking space for 20 buses, 150 four-wheelers, and 500 two-wheelers.
• Streetlights with integrated speakers and CCTV cameras for safety and enhanced visitor experience.
• Additional facilities such as a restaurant, children’s park, landscaped gardens, and fountains.

Green Energy Integration

• A 450 KW rooftop solar power system to make the temple premises energy-efficient.

Economic and Social Impact

The redevelopment will generate employment for local residents and establish Dhapewada as a key destination in the Dhapewada-Adasa tourist cluster.

The ₹206 crore redevelopment project of the ‘Pandharpur of Vidarbha’ will not only modernize the temple infrastructure but also ensure a cleaner, more sustainable environment for future generations. With improved accessibility, enhanced facilities, and eco-friendly measures, the temple is set to become a spiritual and cultural landmark in central India.

1. Why is Dhapewada Temple called the ‘Pandharpur of Vidarbha’?

Dhapewada Temple holds immense religious significance, much like Pandharpur, due to the presence of Lord Vitthal’s self-manifested idol.

2. How will the redevelopment benefit devotees?

The project includes better amenities, increased accessibility, improved security, and enhanced environmental measures for a seamless pilgrimage experience.

3. What measures are being taken to protect the Chandrabhaga River?

The STP with SBR technology, river widening, and deepening efforts will prevent pollution and flooding, improving the river’s health.

4. What are the key infrastructure upgrades planned?

New bridges, administrative buildings, visitor amenities, and green energy installations are part of the redevelopment plan.

5. When will the project be completed?

While the bhoomipujan ceremony is scheduled soon, the full project completion timeline will be shared by the authorities after work commences.