Tirupati (Andhra Pradesh): The number of devotees visiting Tirumala Tirupati Temple for the darshan of Lord Balaji has declined significantly, following an explosion in Covid19 cases. Most of the devotees from other states who have purchased darshan tickets online have dropped their plans. With this, the number of devotees visiting Tirumala is registered between 20,000 and 25,000.
The TTD on having examined these conditions have closed the Sarvadarshana token centres at Vishnu Residence and the Bhudevi Complex.
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Meanwhile, only people who purchased Rs 300 special darshan tickets are being allowed, and a decision has been taken to allow only 15,000 visitors on a daily basis from May for which the tickets will be released on the 20th of April.
Chittoor district has been witnessing high corona positive cases since the Corona re-emergence in Andhra Pradesh. As the Corona cases witnessed a surge in Tirupati, TTD has been asked to stay alert by the state administration.
TTD is requesting pilgrims coming for Balaji darshan to ensure that they follow all covid precautions, and has also advised those having health issues, not to visit Tirumala.
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Devotees are allowed only after being tested at the Alipiri checkpoint, with their vehicles completely sanitized. Steps are also being taken to maintain physical distancing in the religious complex, Kalyanakatta and Annaprasadam. Officials are also requesting pilgrims to arrive on time in a bid to reduce congestion at the Vaikuntham Queue Complex.
Devotees visiting TTD have expressed satisfaction with the implementation of the covid precautionary measures and the manner in which the darshan is being facilitated.
